KARL ANDREI J.

GUSTILO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SESSION

A Historic Turning Point: The 19th Congress 3rd Regular Session – Day 3 (February 5,
2025)
February 5, 2025, will be remembered as a pivotal date in Philippine political history. On
this day, the House of Representatives convened for the third session of the 3rd Regular Session
of the 19th Congress. What transpired during this gathering was not just another day of
legislative deliberations but a defining moment that sent ripples across the nation and beyond. In
a rare and historic move, the House voted to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, making her
the first vice president in the history of the Philippines to be impeached. This event captured
headlines and sparked widespread public discourse, reflecting the deep political divisions and the
critical role of democratic checks and balances in the country.
The impeachment charges brought against Vice President Duterte were both serious and
controversial. These included culpable violations of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust,
graft and corruption, and other serious crimes. Central to the allegations was the misuse of
confidential and intelligence funds during her tenure as Vice President and as Secretary of
Education. Additional charges accused her of complicity in extrajudicial killings during the anti-
drug campaign, and more disturbingly, of being involved in an alleged assassination plot
targeting President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and House
Speaker Martin Romualdez. With 215 lawmakers voting in favor, the Articles of Impeachment
were swiftly adopted and transmitted to the Senate. However, the Senate chose to defer its action
on the matter, leaving the public awaiting the outcome of the next phase of the impeachment
trial.
This political upheaval, however, did not distract the House from pushing forward with
its legislative agenda. Speaker Martin Romualdez addressed the chamber with a comprehensive
overview of the legislative accomplishments of the 19th Congress. Under his leadership, the
House passed a total of 75 national laws and 112 local laws, with 30 of these being priority bills
identified in coordination with the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council
(LEDAC). These measures reflect the Congress’s intent to not only address immediate economic
and social concerns but to also future-proof the nation through long-term reforms.
Among the landmark legislations was the passage of a long-overdue nationwide wage
increase, the first in three decades. This law directly responded to the growing cries for economic
relief amid rising inflation, unstable fuel prices, and increasing costs of living. Additionally,
legislative attention was devoted to issues such as soaring food and electricity prices, the
persistent threat of illegal drug syndicates, and institutional corruption. These efforts symbolize
the legislature's commitment to social justice, economic empowerment, and sustainable
development.
Speaker Romualdez also emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of
democratic institutions and holding public officials accountable. In his address, he assured the
public that the impeachment process was not politically motivated, but a necessary step in
KARL ANDREI J. GUSTILO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SESSION
BA POLITICAL SCIENCE 4/R
preserving the rule of law. The House, he noted, was not above scrutiny and would continue to
champion transparency, responsibility, and equitable governance.
Looking ahead, the House of Representatives is poised to focus on several national
priorities, particularly as the country nears the May 2025 midterm elections. Among the key
initiatives are the expansion of healthcare services, modernization of the education system,
development of digital infrastructure to bridge the technological divide, and constitutional
amendments to attract more foreign investments. These efforts aim to build a resilient and
inclusive Philippine economy while safeguarding the rights and welfare of all citizens.
Insights and Opinion
The third day of the 3rd Regular Session of the 19th Congress showcased both the
maturity and vulnerability of Philippine democracy. On one hand, the impeachment of a sitting
vice president signals a functioning system of accountability and an affirmation that no one is
above the law, regardless of name or influence. On the other hand, it exposes the political
tensions and power struggles that continue to shape the country's governance.
From a personal standpoint, the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte is a
significant test for the country's democratic institutions. While it is essential to hold public
officials accountable for misuse of public funds and abuse of power, it is equally important that
such processes remain fair, transparent, and free from political vendettas. The credibility of both
the House and the Senate is on the line, and how they handle the trial will have long-term
implications for public trust in government.
Moreover, the broader legislative accomplishments of the 19th Congress deserve
recognition. Amid political turmoil, the body demonstrated its ability to govern effectively,
passing crucial laws that directly impact the daily lives of Filipinos. This dual focus, addressing
political accountability while pushing forward with economic and social reforms, is what defines
a truly responsive and mature legislative branch.
In conclusion, February 5, 2025, was not merely a date on the congressional calendar. It
was a moment of reckoning, responsibility, and reflection for the Philippine government. As the
nation looks toward the future, the events of this day serve as a reminder of the fragile but
enduring strength of democracy and the vital role of vigilant and principled leadership in shaping
the country’s destiny.