Photo credit: Senate PH

Senator Robinhood Padilla is making one thing clear as the Senate begins to tackle the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte — rules and due process must be respected at all times.

In a firm reminder to his fellow lawmakers, Padilla said the Senate must stick to its own rulebook and uphold its long-standing traditions. According to him, these are not just formalities but essential pillars of the chamber's integrity.

"When I first entered the Senate, the very first document handed to me was the rules of the Senate," Padilla shared. "Alongside that came the traditions we have to honor. These are what make the Senate a credible institution."

He also emphasized the importance of procedure, warning against skipping steps in such a sensitive and high-stakes process.

"People need to understand that we cannot just skip ahead. We have to follow due process — there’s no jumping over the rules," Padilla said.

As discussions surrounding the Vice President's potential impeachment grow more intense, Padilla's message serves as a call for discipline and fairness within the legislative process. His appeal reflects not just a legal standpoint, but also a deep respect for the democratic institutions he believes must remain intact, regardless of political tension.