MANILA, Philippines — Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla reaffirmed his steadfast support for former President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte, declaring on Sunday, May 10, 2026, that he will continue to serve as their primary defender in the upper chamber.
Padilla’s statement comes amid intensifying political debates and potential legal challenges surrounding the Duterte family, with the Senator emphasizing that his stance will only change if the Senate is formally convened as an Impeachment Court.
Padilla, who topped the 2022 senatorial elections, has consistently positioned himself as a shield for the Dutertes against what he describes as “politically motivated” inquiries.
- Defending the Vice President: Amid ongoing discussions regarding the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) budget and confidential funds, Padilla argued that the scrutiny has crossed into “harassment.” He maintained that the VP’s office deserves the resources necessary to carry out its mandate without constant legislative interference.
- The Former President and the ICC: Regarding the International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings against Rodrigo Duterte, Padilla reiterated his position that the tribunal has no jurisdiction over the Philippines. He vowed to block any Senate resolution that would encourage government cooperation with The Hague.
- A “Brother’s” Oath: Padilla described his loyalty as a matter of principle and personal gratitude, citing the former president’s role in granting him the absolute pardon that allowed him to run for office.
While his defense is currently vocal and public, Padilla noted that his role must shift toward impartiality should formal impeachment proceedings reach the Senate.
- The Senator-Judge Role: Under the Constitution, if the House of Representatives impeaches a high-ranking official (such as the Vice President), the Senate sits as a jury. Padilla acknowledged that in such a scenario, he would be legally bound to set aside his personal biases and act as a Senator-Judge.
- Due Process: “I am their defender now because they are being attacked in the court of public opinion,” Padilla explained. “But if the law calls for a formal trial, I will follow the rules of the Senate and the Constitution.”
Padilla’s remarks highlight the deepening “UniTeam” fracture as the country prepares for the 2028 National Elections.
| Issue | Padilla’s Stance | Political Implication |
| OVP Budget | Full Support | Aligns with the Duterte bloc against the House leadership. |
| ICC Probe | Strict Non-Cooperation | Assures the former president of a legislative “firewall.” |
| Cha-Cha | Pro-Economic Amendments | Continues his push for federalism, a core Duterte advocacy. |
While some senators have remained quiet on Padilla’s pronouncement, members of the minority have cautioned that premature declarations of loyalty could “undermine the public’s trust in the Senate’s independence.” Nonetheless, Padilla remains unfazed, asserting that his constituents elected him precisely because of his “unfiltered” and “honest” convictions.