The impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte continues to escalate as 25 more lawmakers have submitted verification forms, formally joining the complaint as complainants, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed.
The additional signatories, which include representatives from various provinces and party-list groups, bring the total number of supporting legislators to 240, a move that could intensify the political battle surrounding the embattled vice president.
Among those who recently signed the impeachment complaint are Biñan Rep. Len Alonte, Cagayan Rep. Ramon Nolasco Jr., Isabela Rep. Tonypet Albano, and Lanao del Norte Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo, alongside others from across the country.
According to Velasco, the 25 lawmakers were unable to attend the initial oath-taking and verification due to their commitments in their respective districts or overseas engagements. However, their formal submission of verification forms solidifies their support for Duterte’s removal from office.
“The Senate has not yet convened, so it will be up to them on what to do with these 25 members of the House of Representatives who have sent to us their verification,” Velasco said.
Impeachment Case Gains Strength in Congress
The impeachment complaint against Duterte stems from allegations of betrayal of public trust, constitutional violations, bribery, graft, and corruption—charges that her critics claim warrant her removal from office.
With 240 members of the House of Representatives now backing the complaint, political analysts believe that the Senate impeachment court may face mounting pressure to proceed with a trial once the session resumes.
Duterte, who has dismissed the impeachment move as politically motivated, has yet to issue a direct response to the latest developments. However, she has previously called on her supporters to remain steadfast, assuring them that she will fight the charges head-on.
If the Senate impeachment court permits the inclusion of the 25 additional signatories, it could further bolster the case against Duterte, increasing the likelihood of a full-fledged trial.
Senate to Decide on Next Steps
As of now, the Senate has not yet convened for impeachment proceedings, and it remains uncertain how they will handle the latest wave of congressmen backing the case.
Senate leaders have previously stated that any impeachment trial would have to wait until the session resumes in June, setting the stage for a politically charged showdown in the coming months.
Political observers say the growing number of lawmakers supporting Duterte’s removal signals a major shift in the country’s political landscape, with members of both administration and opposition camps weighing in on the vice president’s fate.
With the numbers increasing, Duterte’s political future remains uncertain, as both her allies and critics brace for a high-stakes battle 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.