In a powerful speech during the 116th Commencement Exercises of the University of the Philippines (UP)–Manila on July 22, Professor Emeritus Maria Serena I. Diokno criticized Senate President Chiz Escudero for his handling of the impeachment process against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Diokno, former chairperson of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of integrity, responsibility, and adherence to constitutional principles. “The position does not confer honor. You bring honor to the position, not the other way around,” she declared in front of 1,264 graduates and their families.
While urging the Class of 2025 to uphold the university’s ideals of “honor, excellence, and service,” Diokno directed sharp words at the Senate leadership. She questioned Escudero’s repeated use of the word “forthwith” to delay convening the Senate as an impeachment court, despite the constitutional requirement for the Senate to act immediately upon receipt of articles of impeachment.
“Is Senate President Chiz Escudero using the word ‘forthwith’ to justify his delaying tactics?” Diokno asked rhetorically. She argued that an impeachment trial is the proper venue to hear all arguments for and against the charges. “The Constitution is clear—the Senate must act forthwith. That means immediately.”
Escudero has insisted in multiple interviews that the Senate must observe “due process” and consider the full range of opinions before initiating the trial. He claimed that rushing into proceedings without proper deliberation would undermine the integrity of the process.
However, Diokno countered this logic by pointing out that the trial itself is designed to hear precisely those arguments. “Delaying the process under the guise of procedure only erodes public trust in our institutions,” she said.
She also warned that continued manipulation of legal language to suit political ends demonstrates a shift toward aristocracy, not democracy. “The impeachment process is not about who holds power, but about accountability under the law,” Diokno said.
Her speech has since gone viral, sparking national debate on the true meaning of “forthwith” and whether Senate leadership is upholding its constitutional duty—or avoiding it.