Panelo Challenges Imee Marcos to Impeach Her Brother
SALVADOR PANELO – The former Presidential Legal Counsel has challenged Senator Imee Marcos to file an impeachment complaint against her brother, President Bongbong Marcos, to prove her stance on the government’s actions.
Panelo accused Senator Imee of trying to appeal to both sides, suggesting that she is seeking support from former President Rodrigo Duterte’s followers. His remarks came after the senator held a hearing regarding Duterte’s possible arrest and his withdrawal from the administration’s Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas.
Panelo asserted that if Senator Imee truly believes the government’s actions are wrong, she should take legal action against her own brother, as it would constitute a serious violation of the Constitution. He added that for him to believe in her sincerity, she must also file charges against police officers who allegedly broke the law.
“Kung talagang mali ang ginawa ng gobyernong ito at ang puno ng gobyerno ay iyong kapatid, maghain ka ng impeachment laban sa kapatid mo. Sapagkat ‘yan ay culpable violation of the Constitution,” Panelo stressed. “Kung gusto mong maniwala ako sa’yo, sa ginagawa mo, idemanda mo. Ikaw mismo ang magdemanda sa mga pulis na lumabag sa batas,” he added.
Speaking at a media forum on Thursday, March 27, Panelo emphasized that true accountability requires decisive action, not just public statements.
Meanwhile, Malacañang denied rumors of a rift between President Bongbong Marcos and Senator Imee Marcos amid differences over former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest. While Sen. Imee opposed Duterte’s detention and skipped Alyansa rallies, the Palace stated that the President is not short-tempered and has not addressed the issue.
Sen. Imee later left Alyansa to run independently, sparking further speculation. Despite concerns over their political relationship, campaign manager Rep. Toby Tiangco said they respect her decision. Malacañang urged the public to wait for the President’s statement, emphasizing that no conflict exists between the siblings.