Hontiveros senator judge role was highlighted after Senator Risa Hontiveros said she is prepared to fulfill her constitutional duty should an impeachment complaint against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reach the Senate.

Senator Risa Hontiveros said she is prepared to fulfill her constitutional duty as a senator-judge should an impeachment complaint against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reach the Senate, stressing that lawmakers are bound by oath to uphold the law regardless of political considerations. Her statement comes amid renewed public discussion following the filing of an impeachment complaint related to the President.

In remarks shared with the media, Hontiveros said the Senate’s role in impeachment proceedings is clearly defined under the Constitution. She emphasized that if the process advances to the upper chamber, senators are required to set aside personal or political affiliations and focus solely on the evidence presented. According to the senator, the integrity of democratic institutions depends on lawmakers’ willingness to follow due process and act independently.

The impeachment complaint, which was reportedly filed earlier this week, has drawn mixed reactions from political groups and the public. While some sectors argue that impeachment is a legitimate constitutional mechanism for accountability, others have questioned the timing and merits of the complaint. Hontiveros did not comment on the substance of the allegations, noting that any assessment must be based on facts and proper legal procedures rather than speculation or partisan debate.

The senator underscored that an impeachment trial, if it proceeds, is not a political exercise but a constitutional one. She said senators serving as judges are expected to carefully examine evidence, listen to arguments from both sides, and render decisions guided by the law. Hontiveros added that public trust in democratic processes relies heavily on transparency and adherence to established rules.

Legal experts have pointed out that the filing of an impeachment complaint does not automatically lead to a trial in the Senate. Under the Constitution, the House of Representatives must first act on the complaint and determine whether there is sufficient basis to transmit articles of impeachment to the Senate. Only then would senators take their oath as judges and begin trial proceedings.

Hontiveros’ statement has been cited by observers as a reminder of the Senate’s dual role as a legislative body and, in rare cases, an impeachment court. Historically, impeachment trials in the Philippines have been closely watched events, often carrying significant political and social implications. Analysts note that senators’ public pronouncements ahead of any trial are often scrutinized, as impartiality is a key requirement once proceedings formally begin.

The Palace has not issued an official response to Hontiveros’ remarks, while allies of the President have maintained that the administration remains focused on governance and policy priorities. Supporters of the President have also reiterated their confidence that any accusations would be addressed through proper legal channels.

As discussions continue, Hontiveros reiterated that the Senate’s responsibility is to protect democratic institutions and the rule of law. She said preparedness to act as a senator-judge does not imply prejudice but reflects a commitment to constitutional duty. For now, the fate of the impeachment complaint rests with the House of Representatives, while the Senate stands by should its role be called upon.