What is impeachment?
Impeachment is the constitutional process of removing certain high-ranking public officials from office for committing impeachable offenses. It is a political process, not a criminal proceeding.
What is the purpose of impeachment?
To hold high public officials accountable and protect the public from officials who abuse their office or violate the Constitution.
What are the impeachable offenses?
The impeachable offenses under the 1987 Constitution are:
- Culpable violation of the Constitution
- Treason
- Bribery
- Graft and corruption
- Other high crimes
- Betrayal of public trust
Who are impeachable officers?
Under Article XI, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution:
- The President
- The Vice President
- Members of the Supreme Court
- Members of the Constitutional Commissions:
- Civil Service Commission
- Commission on Elections
- Commission on Audit
- The Ombudsman
Can other public officers be impeached?
No. The list of impeachable officers under the Constitution is exclusive. All other public officers and employees may be removed from office as provided by law, but not by impeachment.
Who has the exclusive power to initiate impeachment cases?
The House of Representatives has the exclusive power to initiate all cases of impeachment (Article XI, Section 3(1)).
Who has the sole power to try and decide impeachment cases?
The Senate has the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment. When sitting for that purpose, the Senators are on oath or affirmation (Article XI, Section 3(6)).
Who presides over the impeachment trial?
When the President of the Philippines is on trial, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court presides, but does not vote. In all other cases, the Senate President presides.
What vote is required to convict in an impeachment trial?
A vote of at least two-thirds (2/3) of all the Members of the Senate is required for conviction.
What are the consequences of conviction in an impeachment case?
Judgment in cases of impeachment is limited to:
- Removal from office; and
- Disqualification to hold any office of honor, trust, or profit under the Republic of the Philippines.
However, the party convicted remains liable to prosecution, trial, and punishment according to law for any criminal offenses committed.