kol

2/2 Considering the strict application of the sub judice rule to statements from the Prosecution, we respectfully ask that the same scrutiny and standard be applied to statements from the Vice President and her spokesperson. The Vice President has said that “hawak ng Presidente ang mga senador” in the context of the impeachment proceedings, which she has described as a “sarswela.” Her spokesperson, meanwhile, has said “nagkakalokohan na lang” and alleged that senators are manipulating the process. These statements raise serious questions about the integrity of the impeachment proceedings. Whether these statements violate Rule XVIII or otherwise warrant action is for the Impeachment Court to determine. All we ask is the fair and even-handed application of the rules. 🎥: @HouseofRepsPH #VPonTrial

1/2 I welcome the fact that the Impeachment Court made no express finding that I violated Rule XVIII. The order likewise does not reject the defenses I raised—that the statements constituted fair and accurate reporting of the proceedings or concerned procedural matters outside the scope of the rule. The order nevertheless contains an admonition to exercise greater restraint. I respectfully disagree with that admonition, particularly considering the absence of any express finding that I violated the sub judice rule. At the same time, I fully respect the authority of the Impeachment Court as an institution and will abide by its guidance. I will therefore continue to exercise even greater care in my public statements moving forward. I do not intend to belabor the matter. Our focus should remain on what is most important in this case: the evidence being presented before the Court. Consistent with that focus, we will continue the important work of keeping the public properly informed about developments in the proceedings and addressing misinformation surrounding the case. 🎥: @HouseofRepsPH #VPonTrial