Spokesperson era

The ongoing impeachment process against Vice President Sara Duterte has been anything but typical. Beyond the legal arguments and political maneuverings, what stands out in this episode is the unusual proliferation of spokespersons — each seemingly assigned to speak not just on behalf of the impeached official or her allies, but also on behalf of government institutions that historically preferred a more reserved posture.

We have Atty. Reginald Tongol for the Senate, Atty. Princess Abante for the House of Representatives and Atty. Antonio Bucoy for the House Prosecution Panel — You can bet there will be more “Attys.” spokespersons as the impeachment process continues.

In past impeachments, proceedings largely played out through the formal mechanisms of the House and Senate. Statements were measured, often issued through committee chairs or institutional press offices.

Today, nearly every corner of the political landscape is represented by a dedicated voice, and to think these are “politicians” who would also have something to say about anything.

This multiplicity of voices may reflect more than just an attempt at transparency. It suggests a climate of heightened caution among legislators — perhaps even hesitancy — when it comes to taking public stances on the case.

After all, Vice President Duterte is no ordinary public official. She remains a formidable political figure with a loyal base, and arguably, one of the strongest potential contenders for the presidency in 2028.

Few want to be seen as either leading or blocking the charge. This “hands-off” approach, despite the noisy headlines, may explain why there is little actual legislative momentum — just a flurry of statements, speculation and ambiguity.

Politicians, especially those with ambitions of their own, are likely aware of the risks of crossing someone as deeply entrenched in the political mainstream as Duterte.

Moreover, the complexion of the Senate has changed significantly with the recent midterm elections. Twelve new Senators, many of whom owe their victories to broad coalitions and careful positioning, now sit at the upper chamber. New Senators such as Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, are strong-willed individuals who would not be swayed.

Whether they lean toward supporting or acquitting the Vice President remains unclear, but their fresh mandates and untested loyalties introduce a new layer of unpredictability into the process. Their votes, should the impeachment move forward to trial, could prove decisive.

This moment in Philippine political life is not without precedent, but it is marked by a new kind of choreography — one that prioritizes caution, optics, and public sentiment over open confrontation. It is a sign of how powerful personalities can reshape institutions, if not in structure, then in behavior.

Ultimately, politics is the ever-present undercurrent in any functioning democracy. But when the spectacle of political maneuvering overtakes the core functions of governance, we risk distracting ourselves from the true mission of public service: to uplift citizens, foster prosperity, and build a future worthy of the next generation. No matter how high-profile or polarizing the personalities involved, the public must remain vigilant in ensuring that government continues to serve not itself, but the people.