Business group asks Senate to follow rule of law 

The Makati Business Club (MBC), one of the country’s most influential business advocacy groups, called on the Senate to convene the impeachment court and move forward with the trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte as this will be a test of the government’s commitment to the rule of law -- a key factor for investor confidence, according to a report by Philippine News Agency.

In a statement released Monday, MBC said adherence to constitutional processes is critical for maintaining the country’s investment credibility.

“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, which would lead to the creation of jobs?” the group said.

The business organization’s statement follows rising calls among law experts, schools and universities, and the religious sector for the Senate to proceed with the impeachment trial of Duterte, noting that it is constitutionally required to try such cases.

MBC underscored that failure to do so would not only undermine due process but could also erode investor trust in Philippine institutions.

“The impeachment trial is meant to present evidence to determine if the charges against the Vice President have basis or not,” MBC said.

“The senators, individually, and the Senate, as an institution, will betray public trust and not provide the Vice President with the forum to refute charges if they do not proceed with the impeachment trial.”