Lawmakers and advocates behind multiple impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte have urged Congress to act swiftly and finalize her impeachment within the year. The push comes amid allegations of misuse of P612 million in confidential funds, accusing Duterte of betrayal of public trust.
Call for Immediate Action
House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro, alongside former lawmakers Teddy Casiño and Liza Maza, emphasized the urgency of advancing the complaints, which are yet to be referred to House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Under House rules, verified impeachment complaints must be submitted to the Speaker, who has 10 session days to include them in the Order of Business and refer them to the House Committee on Justice.
“The complainants of the first, second, and third impeachment complaints are united in urging Congress to act swiftly,” said Casiño. “We demand that the Speaker forward the complaints to the Committee on Justice immediately for deliberation and resolution.”
Timeline and Protest Plans
The group is pushing for action before February 7, the deadline for Congress to act within its current session days. They also announced a series of mass protests on January 18, 25, 27, and 31 to rally public and congressional support.
Casiño pointed to the historical significance of early-year political movements, such as the EDSA People Power revolutions, framing the first quarter as a pivotal moment for political change.
Broader Implications
Maza asserted the impeachment effort is about accountability and fighting corruption. “This sends a clear message that we do not tolerate graft and corruption,” she said. Advocates aim to leverage the issue during the 2025 election season, encouraging voters to support pro-impeachment candidates, particularly senators who would eventually decide Duterte’s fate.
Potential Challenges in Congress
Senate President Francis Escudero expressed skepticism about the impeachment trial’s feasibility within the 19th Congress. Escudero highlighted procedural uncertainties, such as whether an ongoing impeachment process would carry over into the 20th Congress or require restarting.
“The matter needs careful study to determine if it can survive beyond the current Congress,” Escudero said, adding that this novel situation could face legal scrutiny.
Strategic Timing
Advocates view the election season as an opportunity to emphasize the impeachment issue. “Impeachment will become an electoral topic, pushing voters to back candidates who support removing Duterte,” Casiño stated.
Congress is set to adjourn on February 8 and resume in June, with limited time to progress before the 20th Congress begins in July.
Duterte’s Response
Vice President Duterte has welcomed the complaints, framing them as an opportunity to address accusations directly. “This impeachment case targets me alone, allowing me to clarify the issues raised,” Duterte said, distancing her team from the allegations.
Conclusion
As the impeachment process unfolds, its political and electoral implications could shape the 2025 elections and beyond, testing the nation’s commitment to accountability and governance.