Motion for Reconsideration Filed by House of Representatives Against Supreme Court’s

Manila, Philippines – August 2025

The House of Representatives has filed a motion for reconsideration to the Supreme Court regarding its decision that ruled the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte to be barred by the one-year rule.

Motion for Reconsideration

House’s Position on the Issue

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, a lawyer by profession, explained that this motion for reconsideration was not an act of defiance but an exercise of the House’s constitutional duty.

He emphasized that the House holds the exclusive power to initiate impeachment cases, a power clearly defined in the 1987 Constitution.

Romualdez stressed that the House of Representatives is the voice of the people in matters of accountability and it is essential that this power remains unchallenged.

He argued that the Supreme Court’s decision in G.R. No. 278353 misinterpreted facts and imposed new rules retroactively, thus violating the constitutional mandate.

The Supreme Court’s Ruling

The Supreme Court had previously ruled that the impeachment complaint against VP Duterte was invalid due to the one-year rule in the Constitution, which prohibits filing multiple impeachment complaints against the same official within one year. This decision effectively halted the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Legal Basis for the Motion

In the motion for reconsideration, Speaker Romualdez cited the 1987 Constitution, which gives the House of Representatives the exclusive authority to initiate impeachment proceedings, without any need for prior approval or conditions.

He pointed out that the Court’s ruling conflicts with this provision and undermines the House’s role in holding officials accountable.

Impact of the Motion for Reconsideration

The motion for reconsideration is an effort by the House of Representatives to restore its constitutional powers and to ensure the accountability of government officials. If the Supreme Court agrees to revisit its ruling, it could have significant implications for future impeachment cases.

Next Steps in the Process

The Supreme Court will now review the motion for reconsideration filed by the House of Representatives and decide whether or not to revisit the ruling that declared the impeachment complaint against VP Duterte invalid. The decision could either reverse the ruling or clarify legal principles regarding impeachment proceedings in the future.

Conclusion

The motion for reconsideration represents a key moment in the ongoing political and legal challenges surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte.

As the House of Representatives asserts its constitutional authority, the Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision will shape the future of impeachment cases in the country.

References:

  1. Gatchalian expects DBM to come up with `president’s budget’ next week.
  2. House seeks reversal of Supreme Court decision blocking Sara impeachment trial.
  3. House asks Senate: Don’t rush decision on Sara Duterte trial.

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