Zubiri Warns Against Defying Supreme court Ruling, Citing Constitutional Crisis Risk
MANILA, philippines – Former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has issued a stern warning to lawmakers considering impeachment proceedings that defy a Supreme Court ruling, emphasizing the potential for a constitutional crisis and the erosion of the nation’s legal institutions. Zubiri’s remarks come amid calls to proceed wiht an impeachment trial despite a unanimous en banc decision from the High Court.
He stated that such defiance would be a direct challenge to the Supreme Court’s constitutional authority,setting a “perilous precedent.” Zubiri cautioned that pursuing an impeachment trial against the Court’s ruling could lead to a contempt order and a constitutional crisis.
Citing the landmark 1936 case, angara v. Electoral Commission, which established the doctrine of judicial review in the Philippines, Zubiri underscored the Supreme Court’s ultimate authority on constitutional matters. He warned that ignoring the Court’s decision would undermine the principle of judicial review and jeopardize the crucial system of checks and balances essential to democracy.
Zubiri stressed the importance of respecting judicial rulings for maintaining order within a democratic system. He concluded by stating, “Whether we agree with the decision or not, the Supreme Court remains the final arbiter of constitutional issues lest we destabilize the very framework of government. Respect and honor the Supreme Court of the Republic.PERIOD.”
