A major labor coalition is opposing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s position that there is no issue with Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero presiding over the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, arguing that the choice could affect public trust in the Senate's handling of one of the country's most consequential proceedings.
In a statement issued Saturday, NAGKAISA! (N1), which describes itself as the country's largest labor coalition, said it respectfully but strongly disagrees with the President's view, stressing that its concern is institutional rather than personal.
The group urged the Senate to allow Senate President Win Gatchalian to preside over the impeachment court, saying Senate traditions and impeachment rules generally recognize the Senate President's role in trials that do not involve the President.
For ordinary Filipinos, labor coalition chair Atty. Sonny Matula said the issue goes beyond personalities and centers on whether the impeachment process will be seen as fair, independent, and credible.
The coalition expressed concern over Escudero's association with previous debates surrounding the constitutional requirement to proceed "forthwith" in impeachment cases, claiming that delays in the process last year weakened public confidence in the Senate's independence.
Matula also said the Senate should avoid appointing a presiding officer whose impartiality may already be under public scrutiny, arguing that the impeachment court needs a fresh start to earn the public's trust.
While acknowledging Escudero's legal expertise and experience, the Nagkaisa labor coalition said impeachment proceedings require more than legal competence, emphasizing that officials overseeing such trials must not only be impartial but also be perceived as impartial.
The labor coalition called on the Senate majority to reconsider its position and allow Gatchalian to lead the impeachment court, saying public confidence in the institution will be critical to public acceptance of whatever verdict it eventually reaches.
