Vice President Sara Duterte made her first public appearance on Friday, February 7, since being impeached by the House of Representatives, delivering a brief yet defiant statement.
“God save the Philippines,” Duterte said during a press conference, where she also thanked her supporters. She urged them to remain steadfast, stating, “Manalig kayo dahil sa taumbayan ang tagumpay” (Have faith, because victory belongs to the people).
However, the embattled vice president refused to answer several questions from the media, particularly regarding the impeachment case against her. Instead, she revealed that her camp had been preparing for this battle as early as November 2023, when Rep. France Castro allegedly announced plans to file an impeachment complaint.
Duterte’s impeachment marks a historic political moment, as 215 lawmakers voted in favor of removing her from office on charges of betrayal of public trust, constitutional violations, bribery, graft, and corruption.
Impeachment Moves to Senate Amid Political Uncertainty
With the House voting overwhelmingly to impeach Duterte, the case now heads to the Senate, which will serve as the impeachment trial court. However, Senate President Chiz Escudero has confirmed that the trial will not begin until June, once Congress resumes session.
The delay has raised questions about Duterte’s political future, as some analysts believe she may use the extra time to rally support and mount a stronger legal defense.
Despite her impeachment, Duterte remains a top contender for the 2028 presidential race, according to early polling. Some of her supporters claim that the impeachment is politically motivated, aimed at damaging her credibility before the next election cycle.
Public Reaction and Growing Tensions
Duterte’s impeachment has deepened political divisions, with her supporters decrying the move as a power play, while critics argue it is a necessary step toward accountability.
The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), a religious group with significant political influence, recently staged a nationwide rally in her defense, attracting an estimated 1.8 million participants. The event was widely seen as a direct challenge to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, which has remained neutral on the issue.
Meanwhile, former Senator Leila de Lima has called for swift action on the impeachment, warning that delaying the trial could undermine public trust in the government.
“The House has done its duty. Now it is up to the Senate to act with urgency and integrity,” de Lima said.
With the impeachment trial looming and Duterte’s future hanging in the balance, political tensions are only expected to escalate in the coming months.
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.