In a statement on Tuesday, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), emphasized the importance of not delaying the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, calling it a betrayal of the 1987 Constitution and public trust.

Cardinal David highlighted that the Senate's duty to conduct the trial is not optional but a mandate rooted in the principle of checks and balances. He warned that any delay, dismissal, or ignorance of this process for political convenience would betray the Constitution and the people's trust.

As stewards of public office, senators are not only accountable to the law but are also morally obligated to act with integrity and impartiality, according to the Kalookan bishop. He stressed that the impeachment process, while political and quasi-judicial, should adhere to moral standards of truth, justice, and accountability.

Emphasizing that political authority must serve the common good, Cardinal David urged public officials, especially senators, to prioritize justice and truth over political interests. He called on Senate leaders to allow the constitutional process to proceed without obstruction.

Senate President Francis Escudero was sworn in as the presiding officer of the impeachment court on Monday, with senator-judges set to take their oaths on Tuesday afternoon. The Senate is scheduled to convene as an impeachment court on June 11, with the presentation of charges against Duterte by House prosecutors also set for the same day.

The original presentation date of June 2 was moved to June 11 to address priority legislative measures before the 19th Congress adjourns, as explained by Escudero. Despite the delay, various universities and civil society organizations, including Tindig Pilipinas, have urged the Senate to proceed with the impeachment trial, with a prayer vigil scheduled from June 9 to 11.