Malacañang has called on the Senate to listen to the plea of business groups to uphold the Constitution and follow the rule of law in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro expressed concern over the warning issued by the business sector that failure to adhere to the rule of law in Duterte's impeachment trial could impact investor confidence.

Castro emphasized the importance of maintaining political stability to reassure investors about the country's economic progress.

The Makati Business Club, the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, and other private-sector organizations have cautioned that the Senate's inaction on the impeachment process may undermine investor confidence and hinder economic growth.

Despite calls from business groups to ensure the country's commitment to the rule of law, Duterte dismissed their arguments, stating that investor confidence is already low and that accountability should be sought through legal channels.

The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on various grounds, leading to her defense team's expected motion to dismiss the case citing lack of jurisdiction.

While the defense's move to challenge the case indirectly is anticipated, the Senate impeachment court's spokesman clarified that the term "forthwith" in the Constitution allows a reasonable time for the trial process.

Despite the legal maneuvers surrounding the impeachment, the August Twenty One Movement urged Filipinos not to be misled by the ongoing developments.

Source: The Manila Times