MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives’ committee on justice has formally dismissed two separate impeachment complaints against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., citing a lack of substance and factual evidence.
During a hearing on Monday, February 9, 2026, the panel voted 39-4 to approve the committee report declaring the complaints “insufficient in substance,” effectively halting the legal effort to oust the President.
The Dismissed Complaints Two distinct petitions were filed in late January:
- The De Jesus Complaint: Filed by lawyer Andre de Jesus on January 19, this complaint alleged drug use and corruption. However, 42 members of the panel voted to dismiss it, with only the endorser, Rep. Jernie Jett Nisay, voting in its favor. Lawmakers described the allegations as being based on “speculation, media reports, and hearsay.”
- The Makabayan Complaint: Filed by the Makabayan coalition on January 22, this petition cited the “BBM Parametric Formula” (alleged institutionalization of corruption), abuse of discretionary powers regarding unprogrammed appropriations, and direct involvement in kickback schemes. This was dismissed with 39 votes against and 7 in favor.
Panel Deliberations Lawmakers on the committee argued that many of the grounds cited did not constitute impeachable offenses:
- Hearsay on Drug Allegations: Caloocan City Rep. Edgar Erice stated that claims of illegal drug use were unsupported by evidence.
- Policy vs. Crime: Regarding the “BBM Parametric Formula” and the establishment of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), Rep. Ysabel Maria Zamora and Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. noted that while these policies might be considered “imperfect,” their creation alone is not a criminal or impeachable act.
Malacañang’s Response The Palace welcomed the committee’s decision, emphasizing that “due process was followed” and that the complaints “truly had no merit.”
- Confidence in Truth: Palace press officer Claire Castro stated that the President was confident the complaints would not prosper because “he did nothing wrong.”
- Denial of Interference: Malacañang denied allegations that the President had prior knowledge of the dismissal, asserting that while the House is led by allies, the Executive does not control the legislative process.
What Happens Next? The dismissal by the justice panel effectively ends the current impeachment cycle against the President in the House. While the Makabayan bloc questioned the report’s claim that there were no factual allegations, the overwhelming vote indicates that the majority of the chamber considers the administration’s fiscal and social policies to be within the bounds of presidential authority.
The focus of the House is now expected to shift toward the multiple ongoing impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.