Ombud asked to submit reply on impeach raps (12:43 p.m.)

MANILA -- Within 10 days, Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez must submit her response to the impeachment complaints filed against her by two separate groups at the House of Representatives.

Members of the House justice committee had declared both impeachment complaints sufficient in substance during Tuesday's hearing.

“The requirement of substance is met if there is a recital of facts constituting the offense charged and determinative of the jurisdiction of the committee,” Tupas explained to the committee.

Voting 41-14, the complaint lodged by former Akbayan Representative Risa Hontiveros, together with Retired Brigadier General Danilo Lim and Evelyn and Felipe Pestaño -- parents of Phillip Andrew Pestano, a deceased Philippine Navy Ensign who allegedly had knowledge about the involvement of Navy officials in illegal activities, was declared sufficient in substance .

Another impeachment case filed by progressive groups led by Bayan was also declared the same with 41 against 16 votes.

The next hearing is set for September 21. (Kathrina Alvarez/Sunnex)