Former Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri warned that proceeding with an impeachment trial in direct defiance of a recent Supreme Court (SC) ruling could trigger a constitutional crisis and undermine the nation’s democratic foundations.

“We should not disregard the Supreme Court ruling. Because if we do, we may be courting a contempt order from the Supreme Court and a possible constitutional crisis,” Zubiri told reporters on Saturday.

“You know, not to mention a very dangerous procedure if we proceed with the impeachment trial in defiance of a unanimous en banc ruling, remember the High Court decided en banc and it was unanimous,” he continued.

The senator invoked the landmark 1936 case Angara v. Electoral Commission to underscore the long-standing principle of judicial review.

He also emphasized that disregarding the Court’s authority would erode the checks and balances that ensure accountability and stability across branches of government.

“Ignoring the Supreme Court decision is definitely tantamount to eroding the very principle of judicial review. This was already established by an Angara versus Electoral Commission in 1936, a decision that was already then established and also, you know, doing so in turn endangers the delicate system of the checks and balances,” he said.

Zubiri noted the critical importance of upholding judicial authority and respecting the principle of checks and balances enshrined in the Constitution.

“This is the foundation of our democracy. Whether we agree to the decision or not, the Supreme Court remains the final arbiter of all constitutional issues,” Zubiri said.

“Lest we want to destabilize the framework of our government. We must respect and honor the Supreme Court of the Republic, period. No debate about that,” he added.