Ateneo Law Colleges Join Calls for Sara Duterte Trial to Proceed
By Inday Marisol | June 8, 2025
Quezon City, Philippines — The Ateneo Colleges of Law have officially joined the growing number of legal institutions and advocacy groups urging the judiciary to begin formal proceedings in the case involving Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a public statement released this week, Ateneo’s law deans, professors, and select alumni emphasized the importance of due process, institutional accountability, and the public’s right to resolution in what has become one of the most high-profile legal controversies in recent political history.
“The credibility of our institutions depends on their ability to enforce the law impartially, regardless of position or power,” the statement read.
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Background: Allegations and Delays
Vice President Duterte has been facing multiple legal complaints, with allegations ranging from misuse of public funds to abuse of authority during her concurrent roles in national and local government.
While complaints have been filed as early as late 2024, the case has not moved forward publicly, prompting speculation over political interference or strategic stalling.
Legal Community Speaks Out
Ateneo’s call follows similar public statements made by UP Law Center, San Beda Graduate School of Law, and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), all of which have underscored the need for the judicial process to be “prompt, impartial, and transparent.”
“We are not calling for a conviction — we are calling for a trial,” said Atty. Raul Mendoza, an Ateneo professor of constitutional law. “Inaction undermines trust in our justice system.”
Palace, VP Camp Remain Silent
As of this writing, neither Malacañang nor the Office of the Vice President has issued any comment in response to Ateneo’s statement or the growing public demand for trial proceedings to begin.
Political analysts note that the VP’s camp has largely maintained silence regarding the issue, focusing instead on public appearances and regional visits.
Public Sentiment Rising
Online, public sentiment continues to shift as the hashtag #PanagutanNa trends across local social media platforms. Many Filipinos, particularly the youth, have called for greater transparency from public officials, regardless of political affiliation.
“No one is above the law,” one viral post read. “We owe it to our democracy to demand accountability.”
What’s Next?
The Supreme Court and the Office of the Ombudsman have yet to comment on the timeline of proceedings. Meanwhile, Ateneo’s statement marks a significant moment in legal academia, where silence on political matters is often the norm.
Sources
- Ateneo Law Official Statement (June 4, 2025)
- Interview with Atty. Raul Mendoza, Ateneo Law
- Public records and filings (Office of the Ombudsman, 2024–2025)
- Social media trend reports (X Philippines, June 2025)
- Newswire reports
Maria Sollen Castor, known as “Inday Marisol,” is a skilled and experienced content writer. Renowned for her engaging and authentic style, she crafts compelling content that connects with readers and resonates across platforms.