Navotas Lone District Rep. Tobias “Toby” Tiangco defended his decision to vote in favor of the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte during the House's plenary voting, citing constitutional duty, accountability, and the need for proper legal venue despite concerns over timing and political context.
In his explanation on the floor, Tiangco said the timing of the impeachment made the decision difficult, noting ongoing national and international concerns.
“Ang hirap bumoto ng yes dahil ang sama ng timing nitong impeachment na ito,” he said, pointing to crises affecting Filipinos and economic hardship.
He stressed that while the impeachment may not directly address immediate public needs, Congress is bound by constitutional timelines. He added, “Sa ilalim ng ating Saligang Batas ay may itinakdang numero ng araw para ito ay maresolba sa House of Representatives.”
Tiangco also raised concerns about public trust and accountability within government institutions, saying, “Ang hirap bumoto ng yes dahil walang moral authority ang House dahil sa laki ng corruption issue sa mga dating liderato.”
However, he emphasized that the Constitution grants the House the exclusive power to initiate impeachment proceedings.
On allegations involving Vice President Duterte, Tiangco cited unresolved questions on the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), stating there is a need to clarify issues, including alleged undeclared cash holdings.
“Lumilitaw ang issue ng SALN… na nananatiling kailangang malinawan at ipagpaliwanag sa tamang forum,” he said.
He noted that the vice president's camp did not attend House proceedings, limiting opportunities for clarification, and argued that a “Yes” vote does not determine guilt but allows the case to proceed to the Senate.
“Ang pagboto ng Yes ay hindi paghusga ng pagkakasala… ito ang tanging paraan para mabigyan ng formal na venue sa Senado,” Tiangco said.
In concluding his privilege speech, Tiangco attached conditions to his support, calling for swift legislative action and stronger anti-corruption enforcement.
“Madaliin na ang pagpasa ng batas na makakatulong sa ating mga kababayan,” he urged, while also calling on authorities to pursue major corruption cases without delay.
He ended by emphasizing equal accountability for all public officials, warning against perceptions of political selectivity in the enforcement of justice.
