While the impeachment for Ombudsman Gutierrez is said to proceed, Isabela de Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad have encouraged the senators who will take the role as judges to cast their votes in accordance to their conscience.
He said that a thorough examination must be done when conducting an investigation with regards to whatever it is in connection to the charges and evidences against the Ombudsman Gutierrez.
He explains that judges must be wide awake regarding the matter and the charges to be bestowed must be carefully weighed according to its merits.
As the destiny of Gutierrez presently lies in the Senate’s decision, Jumoad advised her to be “humble” and willing to accept whatever the consequences that will be brought to p(–foul word(s) removed–).
The Catholic bishop said in a statement that she must learn to accept her weakness to prove the people that she stands to be a woman with honor and integrity.
Results of the vote came 212-46 wherein four lawmakers have declined voting for Gutierrez impeachment.
Both from the blocs of the administration and opposition cast for the “no” votes. That includes the ex-President who is presently the Representative of Pampanga Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo along with Camarines Sur Representative Rolando Andaya, Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco and Siquijor Rep. Orlando Fua. The Deputy Speaker Jesus Crispin Remulla was also with them.
However, the “no” votes mostly came from the opposition coalition.
Ninety-five votes resulted for a total of one-third members of the House that had met the requirements to send the impeachment articles and oblige Gutierrez to face her case.
Unverified rumors spread that the Representative of San Juan, Joseph Victor Ejercito, had decide to cast from “no” to a “yes” vote.
The plenary voting started 5 p.m. Tuesday where most members of the administration bloc was able to attend to make it certain that Gutierrez will be questioned for a Senate trial.
The decision rising to continue the impeachment for Gutierrez dominated as the night went under many arguments.
Secretary-General Renato Reyes of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan has said that he is looking forward to witness the Senate trial.
On the other hand, the Palace was able to give an appreciation regarding the immediate approval of the Articles of Impeachment towards Gutierrez.
In this manner, the President Spokesman Edwin Lacierda was able to say that by doing such an action, the House has put an end to the long era of impunity that blemished the institution.
Furthermore, he stated that no one could ever escape towards what we call accountability.