MANILA — Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, and Bam Aquino called on the Supreme Court to reconsider its ruling that halted the Senate’s impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, warning that the decision could undermine Congress’ constitutional powers and set a dangerous precedent for accountability.

In a joint statement, the senators said they “respectfully disagree” with the high court’s move to stop the Senate from proceeding with its constitutional duty, arguing that Congress acted in good faith and followed established jurisprudence when it initiated and transmitted the complaint.

“To retroactively apply a new definition of what it means to ‘initiate’ an impeachment case—after the fact—can be likened to changing the rules in the middle of the game. It is unfair,” the senators said.

They cited former Supreme Court Justice Adolfo Azcuna, who described the ruling as “legally defensible, perhaps, but grossly unfair.”

The lawmakers urged the high court to consider two key principles it has previously upheld: the Fairness Principle, which protects those who relied on old legal interpretations in good faith; and the Doctrine of Operative Facts, which recognizes the legal effects of actions made under a prior valid interpretation of the law.

“In doing so, the Court would not be undermining its power of review, but rather giving full effect to all branches of government,” the statement read.

They warned that letting the ruling stand could silence impeachment—a mechanism specifically designed to check abuse of power.

“We did not swear an oath only to protect positions by way of technicalities. We swore to protect the Constitution—and the right of every Filipino to demand truth and justice,” the senators said.

They called on the Supreme Court to harmonize judicial review with the exclusive powers of Congress, saying all branches must be given “proper and balanced effect.”