Senator Loren Legarda’s Explanation of Vote on the Motion to Transfer the Articles of Impeachment Against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Archives | August 6, 2025

Mr. President, distinguished colleagues:

The Supreme Court has ruled with clarity. It declared the impeachment complaint not only constitutionally barred, but void from the beginning, and further held that the Senate did not acquire jurisdiction over the matter. This Decision, by express pronouncement, is immediately executory.

We, in the Senate, are stewards of the Constitution and the rule of law. Our fidelity must be strongest precisely when institutions are under strain or pressure. To proceed as though the ruling were uncertain or optional would be a departure from our constitutional duty.

This manifestation is a commitment to respect the present authority of the Court’s Decision while remaining open to its final word.

I cast my vote without prejudice to the Supreme Court’s disposition of the pending Motion for Reconsideration. The Court speaks, and at times it speaks again. But until it does, the Senate must not act contrary to what it has already said.

For these reasons, I vote yes. I honor the decision of the Supreme Court.

Thank you, Mr. President.