The Makabayan Bloc in the House of Representatives has criticized President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for allegedly interfering in discussions about a possible impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a statement, the Makabayan Bloc called Marcos’ recent remarks on the matter a “brazen attempt to influence Congress” and a violation of the constitutional separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches.
“Such a move reflects weak leadership. In the face of corruption, death threats, and blatant disrespect toward the House of Representatives, this is how the President responds?” the group questioned.
The bloc urged Congress to uphold its independence and prioritize public interest, warning against becoming a “rubber stamp” for Malacañang.
Focus on Confidential Funds and Alleged Irregularities
The Makabayan Bloc argued that the House’s ongoing investigation into confidential funds and alleged irregularities involving Duterte’s Office of the Vice President (OVP) and her former leadership in the Department of Education (DepEd) warranted a serious probe.
While the group expressed readiness to pursue impeachment proceedings if there is sufficient evidence, other lawmakers downplayed the urgency of such action.
House Leaders: Impeachment Not a Priority
Three prominent House leaders—Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker David “Jay-Jay” Suarez, and Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe—stated that impeachment proceedings against Duterte are not currently on their agenda.
The leaders emphasized that their focus remains on investigating the use of confidential funds and other irregularities linked to Duterte’s offices. However, they acknowledged Congress’ constitutional duty to deliberate on any properly filed impeachment complaints.
Marcos: Impeachment “a Waste of Time”
President Marcos confirmed that he had sent text messages discouraging lawmakers from filing an impeachment complaint against Duterte, describing it as unproductive.
“This will not help even one Filipino life. Why waste time on this?” Marcos said in an interview, arguing that an impeachment process would disrupt legislative operations without yielding meaningful results.
Duterte’s Controversial Remarks and Clarifications
The debate over impeachment comes after Duterte made a controversial statement last week, suggesting she would have Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez killed if she were assassinated. Duterte later clarified that her remarks were taken out of context.
Marcos responded by vowing to resist any criminal threats against him or his administration.