Manila: The House of Representatives on Monday imposed strict rules banning disruptions, demonstrations, and unparliamentary conduct as lawmakers opened plenary proceedings on the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte. This session could become one of the most significant constitutional exercises in recent political history.
According to Philippines News Agency, presiding officer Senior Deputy Speaker Ferdinand Hernandez of South Cotabato initiated the session with a stern reminder that the proceedings were conducted under the House's constitutional mandate and in accordance with due process. Hernandez emphasized that the proceedings align with the constitutional duty vested in the House of Representatives and its members.
Hernandez ordered all lawmakers, guests, media personnel, and visitors in the galleries to observe strict parliamentary decorum throughout the proceedings. He announced that lawmakers recognized to speak, interpolate, or make manifestations would each be given 'a minimum period of three minutes for each non-assignable.' Hernandez also stressed that all manifestations, remarks, interpolations, and interventions must remain 'strictly germane to the resolution presently under consideration.'
Hernandez further noted that the use of offensive, disrespectful, or unparliamentary language, as well as any disorderly conduct that may disrupt the proceeding, would not be permitted. The presiding officer also prohibited demonstrations inside the session hall and galleries, including 'clapping, cheering, shouting, booing, displaying placards or similar acts.' He insisted that silence, order, and decorum must be maintained at all times while the proceedings are ongoing.
The House opened plenary deliberations amid heightened political tensions and expectations of a lengthy debate on the impeachment case against Duterte, who faces allegations involving the misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, graft and corruption, and threats against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and then Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
