Vice President Sara Duterte likened her looming impeachment trial to a “crucifixion,” calling it a politically driven “bloodbath,” as she celebrated her 47th birthday in The Hague. Duterte attended a rally in support of her father, detained former President Rodrigo Duterte, who faces trial at the International Criminal Court.
In remarks to the media, she described the proceedings against her as persecution, defending her controversial “bloodbath” comment by saying it was misunderstood and taken out of context.
Duterte reiterated her view that the impeachment is rooted in political retaliation by the administration. She stated that despite the approaching end of the 19th Congress, her legal team is ready to face the trial.
The Senate has moved the presentation of impeachment articles from June 2 to June 11. The charges against Duterte include misuse of confidential funds, alleged links to extrajudicial killings, and a controversial statement about hiring someone to assassinate President Bongbong Marcos if she were to be killed.
She also defended former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who is facing human trafficking allegations linked to the Lucky South 99 POGO hub. Duterte claimed Roque is being targeted due to his support for her father. Roque is currently seeking asylum in the Netherlands.
In response to an SWS survey showing 88% of Filipinos want her to face impeachment, Duterte said she agrees and welcomes the chance to clear her name.
Finally, she dismissed the importance of reconciling with President Marcos, saying she’s focused on public service over personal matters.