Politics · Philippines Bureau
Ridon defends decision to drop VP bribery charge in impeachment
A Bicol party-list representative has justified the withdrawal of a bribery article against the Vice President, citing the presentation of evidence before the Senate impeachment court. The move drew concern from the Palace that it could disadvantage the public.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA – Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon has defended the decision to drop a bribery charge in the impeachment case against the Vice President, saying sufficient evidence has already been presented to the Senate sitting as an impeachment court.
Ridon's statement came in response to concerns raised by Palace press officer Claire Castro, who suggested that withdrawing the impeachment article might "shortcharge" the public interest in the high-profile case. The representative indicated he respects the Palace's position on the matter.
The move to withdraw the bribery article represents a significant shift in the impeachment proceedings, which have drawn intense public and political scrutiny. Ridon's explanation emphasizes that the evidentiary record established during the Senate hearings remains intact regardless of the withdrawal.
The decision underscores the complex dynamics within the impeachment process, where various impeachment articles have been subject to strategic reassessment by the prosecution team as the case has progressed through the Senate.