House Justice Panel Rejects Impeachment Bids vs. Marcos

The House Committee on Justice has dismissed two impeachment complaints filed against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. over alleged violations of the Constitution.

After a two-day marathon hearing, the committee ruled on Wednesday, February 4, that the impeachment complaints were insufficient in substance.

The first complaint was filed by lawyer Andre de Jesus, while the second was submitted by the Makabayan bloc led by former Gabriela Party-list Representative Liza Maza.

In a 42–1 vote with three abstentions, the committee approved the motion declaring De Jesus’ complaint insufficient in substance.

Deputy Minority Leader and Caloocan Representative Edgar Erice later moved to have the Makabayan complaint declared sufficient in substance, but the motion was rejected, with seven members voting in favor and 39 voting against, and no abstentions recorded.

Committee chair and Batangas Representative Gerville Luistro noted the difficulty and seriousness of evaluating the two impeachment complaints and reminded members of their responsibility to carefully weigh the facts, allegations, and supporting documents.

The committee will submit its report to the House plenary for consideration by all members of the chamber.

Under House rules, at least one-third, or 106 of the 318 members of Congress, is required to overturn the Justice Committee’s decision.

If the required number of votes is secured, the Articles of Impeachment will be transmitted to the Senate for an impeachment trial.