“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” – 1 Peter 3:12 ESV

The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) fully supports the House of Representatives’ decision to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte. In pursuit of justice and accountability, the NCCP strongly urges the Senate to initiate impeachment proceedings, ensuring that the rule of law takes precedence over political considerations.

This action reflects the will of the Filipino people to hold the Vice President accountable for grave allegations of corruption, involving the misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds. The reported fabrication of recipients constitutes a serious betrayal of public trust, underscoring the urgency of a fair and transparent impeachment process.

We are also deeply alarmed by the Vice President’s public declarations of threats and killings, statements that are inappropriate and unbecoming of such a leader, in such an honorable position entrusted with serving the people. The NCCP strongly condemns these actions and calls for full accountability by the rule of law.

There is a pattern of impunity that is plaguing the country. High-ranking government officials often wield significant power and influence due to their positions have historically undermined justice. They have connections to various government agencies and access to sensitive information. This combination of power and connections can give officials a sense of entitlement. They treat public office as their private domain, where rules seem inapplicable thus, accountability is disregarded resulting in a culture of impunity. Thus, “the law becomes slack and justice never prevails. The wicked surround the righteous, therefore judgment comes forth perverted” Habakkuk 1:4, NRSV

The impeachment process, as guaranteed by the Constitution, is a critical legal sanction tool to bring charges against high-ranking governmental officials who violate public trust. This process ensures that they are held accountable for their actions of misconduct and abuse of power, and thus, reinforces the principles of transparency and justice.

With former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest, and now under the custody of the International Criminal Court and facing trial procedures for crimes against humanity, the impeachment of Sarah Duterte is a necessary step in dismantling the culture of impunity and unaccountability that has afflicted our nation.

We thus call upon the Filipino people to continue praying for the nation and to seek a swift, fair, and upright impeachment process and outcome. May this ultimately serve the greater welfare of our beloved Filipino people.

26 March 2025

(Sgd.) The Most Rev. Brent Harry W. Alawas
Acting Chairperson

(Sgd.) Ms. Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses
Vice Chairperson

(Sgd.) Pastor Jon Dave A. Angeles
Vice Chairperson

(Sgd.) Rev. Leonardo R. Morada
Treasurer

(Sgd.) Ms. Minnie Anne M. Calub
General Secretary