Consistent with my position and voting practice in previous impeachment proceedings, I respectfully inhibited myself from voting on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
I made this decision in consideration of the fact that my son, Senator Joel Villanueva, will be a senator-judge once impeachment trial starts at the Senate. As a father and as a public servant, I deemed it prudent to refrain from participating in the voting in order to avoid giving any side of the issue grounds to question, challenge, or call for the inhibition of Senator Villanueva during the trial proceedings.
My decision is anchored on the principles of fairness, independence, institutional integrity, and respect for due process. It is my earnest desire that Senator Villanueva, together with all members of the Senate acting as judges, be allowed to carry out their constitutional duty with full impartiality, independence
and freedom from undue political pressure or perceived bias.
At this crucial time in our nation’s democratic process, I call on all parties and all Filipinos to uphold sobriety, objectivity, and respect for our constitutional processes. Let us allow truth and the rule of law to prevail over political passion and partisan interests.
As the impeachment process moves forward, my prayer is simple and sincere: that the truth may fully come to light, that justice may be faithfully served, and that the welfare of the Filipino people and the stability of our nation remain paramount above all personal and political considerations.
May God guide our leaders and bless the Republic of the Philippines.