Senator-Judge Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday called on the Senate to pursue justice with fairness, political neutrality, and equal accountability as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte entered its second day.

Delivering the opening prayer before the impeachment court convened on July 7, Cayetano asked for the courage to uphold justice regardless of political consequences.

“Do not allow us to obstruct justice. Always give us the strength to obstruct injustice regardless of the cause and the consequences. Magalit na po kung sino ang magagalit, ngunit gamitin Ninyo po kami bilang instrumento ng hustisya,” he said in his prayer.

The Minority Leader likewise urged the Senate to apply the same commitment to fairness and impartiality not only in the impeachment proceedings but also in investigating the alleged flood control scandal and other forms of corruption.

“Lead each one of us to pursue the impeachment trial with fairness, political neutrality, and due process; to pursue the flood control scandal with the same zeal, effort, fairness, and political neutrality; and to pursue corruption in all forms,” he said.

Cayetano also prayed for a justice system that serves justice rather than becoming a tool for political persecution.

“Help us build a justice system that is ideal rather than one that is weaponized and is actually an instrument of oppression and tyranny,” he said.

Cayetano concluded his prayer by calling for unity despite political differences, saying Filipinos can still come together in seeking God’s guidance and mercy for the nation.

“We may disagree on many things but let us agree in asking for Your love, grace, and mercy upon the nation,” he said. ###