The House of Representatives of the Philippines voted on Monday to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte.
With 257 affirmative votes, 25 negative votes, and 9 abstentions, lawmakers approved the report of the House Committee on Justice, transmitting the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate for trial.
The vote exceeded the one-third constitutional threshold of 106 votes required to impeach a public official.
In her opening statement, House Committee on Justice chairperson Rep. Gerville Luistro said the votes were not merely about number.
She stressed that the issue was about upholding the Constitution, following due process, examining evidence, and determining the truth.
Luistro also emphasized that when there are serious questions regarding the use of public funds, the accuracy of Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), and the conduct and statements of a public official, the House of Representatives cannot remain silent.
She added that lawmakers cannot turn a blind eye, cannot be afraid, and must not become complicit through silence.
Meanwhile, the Senate of the Philippines is expected to convene as an impeachment court once the Articles of Impeachment are formally transmitted for trial.
(PHOTO COURTESY: Inday Sara Duterte)
