“If ever it comes to that, resignation only evades accountability,” said Renee Louise Co, a Kabataan Partylist representative and House prosecution panel spokesperson during a press conference.

Co said resignation would not resolve the four Articles of Impeachment, noting that it would only address the issue of holding office.

“It only answers the question of occupation of office,” she said.

House prosecution legal spokesperson Atty. Benjamin “Jay” Tolosa Jr. likewise said resignation would not render the impeachment case moot.

“The resignation does not render the entire proceedings moot because, again, there are other penalties,” Tolosa said, adding that the prosecution remains focused on presenting evidence.

He emphasized that the constitutional process must continue, stating that resignation does not automatically excuse the alleged acts.

“The trial will continue, the trial must continue because the resignation does not automatically condone the acts committed,” said House of Representatives trial spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur.

Adiong noted that the House has already impeached Duterte and that the next step lies with the Senate.

“Resignation is an option given to all public officers, either appointed or elected. Accountability should not be made an optional issue,” he said.

Tolosa also said the prosecution panel is prepared to present evidence in support of the impeachment charges.

“Our duty is clear: to present evidence in support of the Articles of Impeachment. We will do so professionally, fairly, and with fidelity to the constitutional process,” he said.

He added that it will be up to Duterte whether she attends the proceedings, and that she would need to explain any absence to the public.

The Senate is scheduled to convene as an impeachment court at 2 p.m. and will take up the case against Duterte, who faces allegations including misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and issuing death threats. She has denied all accusations.