The two known opposition figures have accepted the offer.
In a statement on Wednesday, May 14, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said that he has invited presumptive representatives-elect in the upcoming 20th Congress, former Senator Leila de Lima and Atty. Chel Diokno, to join the prosecution panel for the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
“Former Senator De Lima and Atty. Diokno are two of the most respected legal minds in the country. Their potential inclusion in the prosecution panel would add credibility, balance, and depth to this constitutionally mandated process,” the House Speaker said.
He continued, “They are not just veteran lawyers—they are public servants with a lifelong record of upholding the rule of law and protecting democratic institutions. Their involvement would be a valuable contribution to ensuring that the proceedings are fair, principled, and rooted in the public interest.”
Romualdez also underscored that the trial will is not about targeting individuals, and instead, is about the legislative’s fulfillment of its constitutional functions.
“The House is committed to presenting a case based solely on facts, evidence, and the rule of law,” the House leader said.
“The Senate, as the impeachment court, deserves to hear a case presented with competence and credibility. The participation of figures like De Lima and Diokno will help ensure that,” Romualdez ended.
In response, Leila de Lima, who is the first nominee of Mamayang Liberal partylist, who is presumed to have secured one seat in the next Congress, confirmed that she has been tapped and will be onboard to join the team.
“The House Speaker has invited me to serve on the prosecution panel for the upcoming impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte. I have accepted,” she began her statement.
Explaining the reason, presumptive representative-elect De Lima shared, “My decision comes from a place of duty and principle. I have always stood for truth, accountability, and the rule of law—across different administrations, regardless of political affiliation. That commitment remains unchanged.“
‘Manay Leila‘ elaborated that it is not about personalities or partisan politics. But rather, “It is about honoring the public trust and the responsibilities that come with it.”
Adding that her participation in the counsel is part of the broader agenda for justice and reform, which is what she intends to pursue as member of the House of Representatives.
The former senator, who was wrongfully accused and charged for drug trafficking during the past administration—which were eventually dismissed following recanted statements of witnesses, was detained for over six years.
It was only in June 2024 when the last of her cases was dropped by a Muntinlupa court due to insufficient evidence.
Meanwhile, leader of the 2025 partylist race Akbayan Partylist also confirmed the invitation extended to its first nominee, Atty. Chel Diokno.
“As the principal endorser of the first impeachment complaint and after thorough party deliberations, we extend our full support to this historic process of accountability,” Akbayan wrote in its statement.
“Buong tapang na tinatanggap ng Akbayan ang bagong kabanata ng laban para sa katarungan at pananagutan,” confirming Diokno’s participation in the trial.
The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is expected to start right after the fourth State of the Nation Address and the official start of the 20th Congress in late July 2025.