MANILA, Philippines — Business leaders and civil society organizations are collectively demanding that the Philippine Senate move forward with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, highlighting the necessity of upholding accountability and due process in response to serious allegations against her.

On June 9, the Makati Business Club issued a statement urging the Senate to convene as an impeachment court to address the case against Duterte, who was impeached in February by a supermajority in the House of Representatives.

The impeachment was based on seven articles alleging constitutional violations, corruption, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes.

The Makati Business Club comprises members from various sectors, including small enterprises and international corporations.

In their statement, they expressed that the impeachment trial is a crucial test of public accountability and the rule of law, emphasizing that uncertainties regarding the trial's progression could deter both foreign and local investment, which is vital for job creation.

The organization stated, "If we do not follow the rule of law, how can we expect to attract foreign and even local investors to bring in long-term investments?" They insisted that the impeachment trial is necessary to present evidence regarding the charges against Duterte, urging that the Senate must act to prevent a potential betrayal of public trust.

Civil society groups have echoed the business community's sentiments, advocating for the impeachment trial to be conducted transparently and in line with constitutional mandates.

Educational institutions, including universities and colleges, have also expressed their support for the trial, arguing that the Senate should proceed without obstruction.

Senate President Chiz Escudero had proposed putting the convening of the impeachment court to a vote and indicated that the Senate could not compel the incoming 20th Congress to continue the trial.

However, legal experts and numerous legislators argue that the Senate, as a continuing body, holds the responsibility to advance the impeachment proceedings regardless of congressional shifts.

Duterte faces allegations of misappropriating public funds, and civil society representatives have stressed that these must be addressed through formal legal processes, even amidst other pressing national issues such as inflation and unemployment.

They affirm that pursuing the impeachment trial does not negate the urgency of addressing these socio-economic challenges.

Under current discussions, the final reading of the impeachment articles is set for June 11, coinciding with the last session of the 19th Congress, which has raised concerns about how the transition to the new Congress may affect the continuation of the impeachment process.