Manila: The House Committee on Justice clarified that the two impeachment complaints filed against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. have been deemed sufficient in form, a necessary step allowing the panel to proceed with evaluating their substance.

According to Philippines News Agency, the committee leaders emphasized in a press conference that the proceedings are still in the preliminary and procedural phase, without addressing the merits of the complaints. FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Rep. Brian Poe Llamanzares, vice chair of the panel, explained to the public that the recent vote was solely about the form of the complaints, ensuring they meet technical requirements under House rules.

Panel chair Batangas Rep. Gerville 'Jinky Bitrics' Luistro further elaborated that the committee's focus was on verifying technical aspects such as the complainants' signatures, verification based on personal knowledge, and endorsement by a House member. The next step involves assessing whether the allegations meet the constitutional threshold for impeachment. At this stage, the committee is restricted from evaluating evidence or the truth of the accusations.

Luistro detailed the five-step impeachment process, which started with determining sufficiency in form. If the complaints are found sufficient in substance, the committee will notify the respondent to submit an answer and supporting documents. The process will then assess if there is enough basis to support the complaints, potentially leading to a hearing where all parties may be invited to appear.

The final stage involves determining probable cause, and the committee's findings will be compiled in a formal report for the plenary's consideration. Approval by at least one-third of all House members would result in the impeachment case being sent to the Senate for trial.