Metro Manila, Philippines – A Malacañang official called out a lawmaker for allegedly spreading unverified claims about the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, urging him to present evidence instead of making sweeping accusations.
Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro criticized Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco over his statements suggesting irregularities, including alleged vote-buying, in the impeachment process.
“Ang daming sinasabi pero wala tayong nakikitang anumang ebidensiya,” Castro said during a press briefing.
[Translation: He is saying a lot, but we are not seeing any evidence.]
Castro challenged Tiangco to substantiate his claims, warning that baseless allegations could undermine public trust in government institutions.
“Maaaring nanlilinlang si Congressman Toby Tiangco,” she said.
[Translation: Congressman Toby Tiangco may be misleading the public.]
She added that public officials should avoid spreading misinformation, especially on issues involving constitutional processes.
Tiangco earlier raised concerns about the impeachment proceedings, alleging that lawmakers were being influenced in connection with the case against Duterte. The Palace has denied such claims and maintained that the process is being conducted within legal bounds.
Castro also questioned Tiangco’s stance on corruption issues, saying accountability should apply regardless of the amount involved.
“Hindi po iyan nararapat — maliit, malaki, ang anumang ninakaw o diumano ninakaw dapat panagutan,” she said.
[Translation: That is not right — whether small or large, anything stolen or allegedly stolen must be accounted for.]”
The House of Representatives prepares to begin impeachment hearings against Duterte this week, setting the stage for a high-stakes political and legal battle.
House justice committee chairperson Gerville “Jinky” Luistro, meanwhile, denied allegations of bribery linked to the proceedings, saying she has not encountered any attempt to influence lawmakers.
