In a significant political development, the Philippine lower house of Congress has endorsed an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. This unprecedented move comes amid rising tensions between her and current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Details of the Impeachment
On 5 February 2024, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco announced that 215 out of 306 lawmakers have signed the petition. With this support, the impeachment bill will be forwarded to the Senate, where 23 senators will act as jurors in a trial that could lead to Duterte’s removal from office.
- Duterte could face lifetime disqualification from holding public office.
- Grounds for impeachment remain unclear at this stage.
A Family Saga
This turmoil marks a notable setback for the Duterte family, which rose to prominence under former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial administration. Reports suggest a public fallout between Sara Duterte and President Marcos Jr. following the collapse of their political alliance, which had propelled them to victory in 2022.
The political rift intensified dramatically last November when Duterte alleged she had contracted an assassin to target Marcos and his family if she were ever killed. She later claimed her comments were misinterpreted.
Context and Implications
This impeachment complaint positions Duterte as the fourth official in the Philippines to face impeachment. Historically, such proceedings have been initiated for serious allegations including treason, bribery, and corruption.
Echoing sentiments from within the Duterte camp, her brother, Davao Congressman Paolo Duterte, expressed his outrage over what he termed a politically motivated action, warning that this misuse of power would not end favourably for those involved.
As the political landscape shifts, many citizens and analysts will be closely watching how this legal battle unfolds, as it could reshape the power dynamics within the Philippines.