Philippine business leaders hope the impeachment trial of Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio can be completed this year so officials can focus on budget deliberations and other key measures, the Makati Business Club (MBC) said.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the group's 45th anniversary celebration, MBC Chairman Edgar O. Chua said: "We want it completed as soon as possible but done fairly."

The MBC, founded in 1981, is one of the Philippines' most prominent business associations, counting executives from many of the country's leading corporations among its members.

He called the prosecution's decision to drop three of four impeachment charges and focus solely on the Vice-President's unexplained wealth a "good move."

"Personally, just focusing on one — the unexplained wealth — is good because otherwise, it will take longer," Mr. Chua said. "I think the Vice-President should welcome this, because this simplifies [the impeachment process.]"

Last week, the prosecution team withdrew three articles of impeachment, involving allegations of misuse of confidential funds, bribery, and grave threats against President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. It said evidence supporting the remaining article — which covers unexplained wealth, alleged violations of rules on statements of assets, liabilities and net worth, and prohibited business interests — is enough to convict Ms. Duterte. Under the 1987 Constitution, the Vice-President is among the officials subject to impeachment, and any trial concludes in the Senate, where a conviction requires the vote of two-thirds of all senatorsn
Congress should expedite the trial so lawmakers can turn to other pressing matters, such as deliberations on next year's national budget, according to the business group. The government's fiscal year begins January 1, which puts a year-end deadline on passage of the spending measure.

"They should review the budget passed by Congress," Mr. Chua said, citing comments from budget experts that the 2027 National Expenditure Program passed by congressmen had less funding for key concerns like health, education, transportation, and infrastructure.

Mr. Chua also called for greater efforts on voter education, freedom of information, and campaigns against political dynasties.

"The only chance that we can change the current system is if we elect the right people," he said.

How quickly the Senate takes up the sole remaining article, and whether the 2027 spending measure clears Congress before the fiscal year starts, are the near-term developments to watch.

— Beatriz Marie D. Cruz