Photo credit: Congress PH

The Episcopal Church in the Philippines has called on Senate leaders to uphold integrity and protect the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, warning that recent political developments are fueling public concern over the independence of the upper chamber.

In a pastoral statement signed by Prime Bishop Nestor D. Poltic, the church expressed “profound concern” over the sudden leadership changes in the Senate and the reappearance of Senator Ronald dela Rosa following months away from the public spotlight due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.

The church said the developments come at a crucial period in the country’s democratic process, especially as the Senate prepares to handle the impeachment case transmitted by the House of Representatives against Duterte.

“These developments come at a critical moment in our nation’s democratic life,” the statement read, referring to both the impeachment proceedings and the ICC case linked to alleged crimes against humanity during the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.

According to the Episcopal Church, the timing of the Senate leadership shake-up and dela Rosa’s return to public view has raised fears that political maneuvering may influence the chamber while it is expected to act as an impeachment court.

“As a Church committed to the principles of truth, justice, accountability and the sanctity of democratic institutions, we view these developments with grave apprehension,” the statement added.

The church also warned that actions perceived as politically motivated could damage public trust in one of the country’s key constitutional institutions.

It stressed that the Senate carries a serious constitutional responsibility to uphold impartiality, due process, and the rule of law while handling the impeachment proceedings.

“The Senate bears a solemn constitutional duty to uphold impartiality, due process, and the rule of law,” the church said.

The religious group further cautioned against allowing partisan interests to shape democratic institutions, saying any move that undermines accountability weakens the country’s democratic foundations.

The church urged political leaders and public officials to put national interest above political ambition and to act with restraint and moral courage during the ongoing political tensions.

It also encouraged Filipinos to remain vigilant, prayerful, and actively engaged in democratic processes as the country navigates the impeachment proceedings and broader political uncertainty.

The statement ended with a prayer for wisdom, justice, and unity as the Senate prepares to exercise its constitutional role in the impeachment case against Duterte.