Vice President Sara Duterte has broken her silence on her impeachment by the House of Representatives, questioning why lawmakers feel the need to justify their votes.
“If you have to explain or defend your signature in a yes petition of impeachment, then you feel you have done something wrong,” Duterte said in a press briefing on Friday, February 7—her first public appearance since 215 lawmakers voted to impeach her earlier in the week.
The impeachment complaint accuses Duterte of betrayal of public trust, constitutional violations, bribery, graft, and corruption. The allegations stem from her alleged misuse of P612 million in confidential funds within the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd).
Despite the overwhelming House vote, Duterte appeared defiant, suggesting that some lawmakers may be feeling guilty about their decision. “If you’ve done nothing wrong, why would you feel the need to defend your signature?” she said.
Impeachment Moves to Senate Amid Political Tensions
With the House’s decision finalized, the Senate will now serve as the impeachment trial court. However, Senate President Chiz Escudero has confirmed that the trial will not begin until June, when Congress resumes session.
The delay has sparked concerns about political maneuvering, as it gives Duterte months to shore up support and mount a legal defense. Some political analysts believe the timing of the trial could influence the 2025 midterm elections, where Duterte’s allies are expected to use the impeachment as a rallying cry.
Meanwhile, Duterte has not ruled out a 2028 presidential run, despite the ongoing controversy. She remains one of the most popular contenders in early polling, leading to speculation that the impeachment is an attempt to derail her political ambitions.
Political Fallout and Public Reaction
Duterte’s impeachment has polarized the political landscape. Her supporters claim the move is politically motivated, while critics argue that she must be held accountable for alleged financial irregularities.
The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), a politically influential religious group, recently staged a massive rally in support of Duterte, gathering 1.8 million people nationwide. The demonstration was seen as a message to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has remained neutral on the impeachment issue.
Despite mounting pressure for transparency, not a single impeachment complaint has been forwarded to House Speaker Martin Romualdez for official referral to the House Justice Committee. This delay has led to speculation that political negotiations are ongoing behind the scenes.
Former Senator Leila de Lima has called on the House to act with urgency, stating, “Delaying action would send a dangerous message—that Congress is willing to tolerate corruption.”
As the Senate prepares for a historic trial, the political battle over Duterte’s future is just beginning.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.