MANILA — House prosecutor and Akbayan Party-list Rep. Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno said members of the House of Representatives are extending assistance to victims of the Mindanao earthquake while continuing preparations for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Speaking at a press conference at the House of Representatives, Diokno said lawmakers immediately organized relief efforts following the earthquake.

“Even though we are in the middle of preparing for the impeachment trial, what happened and what is happening in Lindol in Mindanao is not far from our minds and conscience,” Diokno said.

“Actually, when that happened, the members of the House already came together,” he said. “We have already begun donation and relief efforts.”

Diokno said more than 100 lawmakers have committed to provide assistance, including personal donations, for communities affected by the disaster.

“Under the leadership of Speaker Bojie Dy, the members of the House of Representatives are coming together,” he added.

The lawmaker said the House remains capable of carrying out its constitutional responsibilities in the impeachment proceedings while addressing the needs of earthquake victims.

“Impeachment is one of our duties under the Constitution, but helping the victims of this earthquake is a humanitarian duty,” Diokno said. “We do not forget that.”

“We are doing everything we can to make sure that those efforts will reach the affected families and communities,” he said.

Diokno added that the ongoing relief drive complements assistance already being provided by legislators through their congressional districts, local government partners, and constituents.

“While we are in the middle of preparing for this constitutional trial, we are also not forgetting our duties to legislate, and of course, our duties to provide as much assistance and support as we can to those who were affected by the earthquake,” Diokno said.