MANILA, Philippines — Former Commission on Audit and Comelec Commissioner Atty. Rowena Guanzon has sharply criticized Congresswoman Gerville Luistro, Chair of the House Committee on Justice, accusing her of bias in handling recent impeachment proceedings. Guanzon made her remarks on her program Usapang Matino aired on NET25 Radyo Agila on February 4, 2026.

According to Guanzon, Luistro’s actions and demeanor reveal an unwavering support for House Speaker Martin Romualdez and President Marcos Jr., while being overtly critical of Vice President Sara Duterte. “No matter what measures they now claim to follow, including Supreme Court rulings, you can still see Congresswoman Luistro’s bias. She appears almost reverent on stage with Martin Romualdez,” Guanzon said. She added that Luistro’s defense of the administration has been aggressive, contrasting sharply with her treatment of Vice President Duterte’s camp.

Guanzon described the committee chair as “rabidly pro-Martin and BBM, and rabidly anti-VP Sara,” questioning whether her continued leadership can ensure fair proceedings. She called on Luistro to resign from her position to preserve the integrity of the impeachment process.

The comments come amid public scrutiny of the House Committee on Justice for dismissing several impeachment complaints against President Marcos Jr., which critics argue reflects favoritism toward Malacañang and the chamber’s leadership. Observers note that perceived partiality by key lawmakers can erode public trust in constitutional processes and the rule of law. This incident highlights the delicate balance between politics and judicial oversight, and whether institutional mechanisms can remain impartial when political loyalties are at stake. As the nation watches, one question emerges: Can impeachment processes in the Philippines ever be fully impartial in a highly polarized political environment? (Larawan mula sa: Sara Duterte, Tito Sotto / Facebook)