Vice President Sara Duterte reiterated Tuesday that she will not resign despite the ongoing impeachment trial and allegations against her.
“I will not resign. I will never resign from the Office of the Vice President,” Duterte told reporters.
The impeachment trial was on its 39th day, with the House prosecution panel presenting its evidence, according to the report. The defense panel is scheduled to begin presenting witnesses and evidence on Nov. 9. The report did not detail evidence presented by the prosecution panel during the proceedings.
Duterte said she and her lawyers are discussing possible legal steps in response to allegations made by Ramil Madriaga, Rodulfo Gracioso, National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag and Antonio Trillanes.
She said they do not expect fair treatment from the government and are currently denying the allegations.
Duterte also again disputed Matibag’s statements concerning properties allegedly linked to her and her family, saying the claims were not realistic.
The vice president also voiced concern about possible election cheating and the continued spread of what she called black propaganda during the 2028 national elections, if the elections proceed.
She did not announce specific legal actions against the individuals she named. The report said her discussions with her lawyers about possible steps were ongoing.
The prosecution panel is presenting evidence during the impeachment proceedings, while the defense presentation is scheduled to begin Nov. 9. Duterte’s remarks came as the trial continued and allegations against her remained disputed.
Duterte maintained that she would remain in office and said she was rejecting the accusations. Her comments about the 2028 elections focused on concerns over possible fraud and the spread of black propaganda, should the elections take place.
No additional details about the possible legal actions or the election concerns were provided in the report.
