Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV called on the public to stay hopeful and vigilant despite the Senate’s recent decision to remand the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte back to the House of Representatives.
In a lengthy statement posted on social media, Trillanes acknowledged the disappointment many Filipinos felt over the Senate vote, but offered three key points that he believes should inspire optimism. “Eto naman ang aking mga optimistic takeaways para mabuhayan kayo ng loob,” he wrote.
He praised the five senators — Koko Pimentel, Risa Hontiveros, Grace Poe, Nancy Binay, and Sherwin Gatchalian — who stood their ground and voted against the motion, saying they showed rare moral courage. “Ipagbunyi natin ang kanilang moral fortitude,” Trillanes said.
He also emphasized that despite the remand, the impeachment court was already convened and the senators took their oath, which means the court has effectively acknowledged jurisdiction over the case. This, he pointed out, contradicts any claim that the trial is completely blocked.
Finally, Trillanes noted that the Senate did not outright dismiss the case, a move he claimed had been planned by Duterte’s allies. “Buhay pa ang kaso,” he said, adding, “WE LIVE TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY.”
Trillanes then called on the public to continue pressing for the impeachment trial to proceed. “Kailangan rin nating makilahok sa mga darating na pagkilos sa kalye at pag-iingay sa social media,” he said, urging citizens to make their voices heard.
“Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” he concluded, hinting at more actions to come in the coming days.
