The camp of Vice President Sara Duterte has downplayed a fourth impeachment complaint filed against her, saying the series of complaints does not mean the allegations are true.
In a statement, defense team spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa said repeated filings should not be taken as proof of wrongdoing. He said the vice president’s camp will address the complaint at the proper time in accordance with the Constitution and laws governing the impeachment process.
The fourth complaint was filed by Atty. Nathaniel Cabrera and endorsed by Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega and Rep. Bienvenido Abante. The complaint includes allegations of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution and alleged improper use of funds.
Poa said the impeachment process is a constitutional mechanism that should proceed through a fair and just process. He added that it should not be used as a political tool.
The filing of the latest complaint comes after Duterte announced plans to run for president in the 2028 elections. The development has added tension to the political climate, according to statements from her camp.
As with previous complaints, the vice president’s camp said it will respond through legal and constitutional channels when the process requires it. No further details about the complaint were provided in the statement from her defense team.
The impeachment process in the Philippines is handled by the House of Representatives, which determines whether a complaint is sufficient in form and substance before any trial proceedings.
