Impeach court gives Ridon ‘stern warning’ on comments

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate impeachment court has issued a stern warning to House prosecutor Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon over comments he made in media interviews that have been flagged for possible violation of the gag order.

In a two-page order, the court cautioned Ridon to observe the difference between merely informing what occurred in the trial and “telling the public what the evidence proves or why it supports a party’s position.”

While the court acknowledged that the trial involves matters of public concern and that the public is entitled to be informed of its developments, it “demands greater, not lesser, restraint” from counsel who are bound by the Court of Professional Responsibility and Accountability.

“This is to ensure that any decision made by senator-judges is based not on statements publicized outside the court but upon evidence and arguments presented and tested within its established parameters,” the order read.

“Accordingly, the court hereby issues a stern warning to Rep. Terry L. Ridon to exercise greater restraint in future public statements concerning the merits of the pending impeachment trial,” it added.

Rule 18 of the impeachment rules prohibits parties from commenting on the merits of the case.

In issuing the stern warning, the court said it gave due weight to Ridon’s explanation that he acted in good faith and that he understands the distinction between reporting what transpired in the proceedings, explaining procedural developments and commenting on matters that are for the court’s determination.

The court issued the Sept. 28 ruling in response to Ridon’s answer to the show cause orders issued against the lawmaker last Sept. 16.

The court did not specifically cite the statements of Ridon that warranted further explanation, but merely said that these were issued by Ridon on Sept. 14 and 15.

In response, Ridon vowed to comply with the court’s ruling and thanked it for being understanding and gracious.