The Philippine House of Representatives voted to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday, escalating a political feud with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Duterte, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces charges including conspiracy to assassinate Marcos and misuse of public funds. She has vehemently denied all accusations and signaled her intent to fight the charges.
This impeachment process marks a significant deterioration in the relationship between Marcos and Duterte, who were allies during the 2022 election. Policy differences have reportedly led to the fracturing of their alliance. The upcoming midterm elections in May add another layer of complexity, as newly elected senators could influence the outcome of the impeachment trial.
Duterte, speaking publicly for the first time since the impeachment vote, projected an air of calm and confidence. In a Friday briefing, she stated, “The Filipino people will prevail,” and affirmed her respect for the Senate’s ultimate decision. The Senate will convene as an impeachment court to determine her fate. A two-thirds vote is required for conviction, which would result in her removal from office and disqualification from holding future public positions.
The impeachment complaint, transmitted to the Senate on Wednesday, outlines the accusations against Duterte. She has consistently denied any involvement in assassination plots or misappropriation of funds. Her legal team is preparing for the impending legal battle. Duterte has not yet revealed whether she believes she has enough support in the Senate to avoid conviction.
While encouraging her supporters to defend her on social media, Duterte has discouraged public protests. She also reiterated her interest in a potential presidential run in 2028, declining to elaborate further on her plans.
President Marcos has denied involvement in the impeachment efforts, stating that he will allow the Senate to proceed independently. He downplayed potential economic repercussions, emphasizing the government’s commitment to investment plans and structural reforms.
Senate President Francis Escudero indicated that the impeachment trial likely won’t begin until June, after the May elections and subsequent break in legislative sessions. Crucially, twelve new senators will be elected in May, and their votes will be critical in determining Duterte’s fate.
Duterte concluded her briefing with a characteristically defiant quip, suggesting that a romantic break-up would be more distressing than impeachment.
The impeachment trial will undoubtedly be a significant political event in the Philippines, with potential ramifications for the country’s future leadership and stability. The outcome remains uncertain, but the charges and subsequent trial will continue to dominate the political landscape in the coming months.
