LP congressman wants to dismiss 2 impeach raps vs PNoy

MANILA, Philippines - A member of the ruling Liberal Party (LP) on Tuesday moved to dismiss the second and third impeachment complaints filed against President Aquino.

During the televised hearing of the House of Representatives Committee of Justice on Tuesday, Deputy Speaker and Leyte Representative Sergio Apostol cited the constitutional provision which states that no impeachment proceedings shall be initiated against the same official more than once within a period of one year.

Committee chairman Iloilo Representative Neil Tupas ruled that all three impeachment cases against the President should be tackled.

Tupas added, however, that the complaints filed after August 11 will be barred.

The second impeachment complaint filed against Aquino accused the President of betrayal of public trust and graft and corruption over the administration's Disbursement Acceleration Program, which was declared partially unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

The third complaint alleged that Aquino committed culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement of the Philippines and the United States.

The House committee on justice will vote today whether or not the three impeachment complaints filed against Aquino are sufficient in form.