Malacañang Palace left the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte entirely to the Senate, emphasizing that public officials facing allegations must ultimately face accountability. 

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the Executive branch respects the constitutional principle of separation of powers and will not meddle in the legislative process.

“Alam naman po natin ang impeachment trial ay trabaho po ito at mandato po ito ng Senado. Hindi po kailangan na makialam ang Pangulo sa sinabing mandato ng Senado dahil mayroon po tayong separation of powers” Palace Officer Castro said on May 18.

Castro clarified that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has no intention of interfering with the Senate’s explicit mandate to conduct the proceedings. 

She reiterated that the trial falls strictly under the jurisdiction of the lawmakers, ensuring that the co-equal branches of government maintain their independence throughout the high-profile case.

While maintaining a hands-off approach, the Palace reminded both legislators and the public of the core principle at stake: justice. 

“Ang dapat lang po sigurong lagi nating tandaan hindi lamang ang Senado, hindi lang sa Senado at senador kung hindi tayo mismong mga Pilipino – ang dapat na managot ayon nga sa Pangulo ay dapat na managot.” Undersecretary Castro said.