Vice President Sara Duterte’s absence from impeachment hearings has raised questions about the proceedings, with lawmakers saying her failure to attend could be interpreted as a waiver of her right to defend herself.

In a television interview, Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores, vice chairman of the House Committee on Justice, said due process is satisfied as long as the respondent is given the opportunity to be heard.

“As long as they were given the opportunity to be heard and they did not avail of that opportunity,” Flores said.

The remarks came as the House continues deliberations on the impeachment complaint against Duterte, which alleges violations of public trust.

Duterte’s legal team has filed a petition seeking to halt the proceedings, but lawmakers said her absence does not invalidate the process.

Flores stressed that the legal framework remains intact as long as proper notice and opportunity to attend were provided.

The House Committee on Justice is set to resume its review of the impeachment case on 14 April.