MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte confronts renewed impeachment proceedings as activist groups filed dual complaints before the House of Representatives on Monday. The allegations center on substantial corruption claims involving 612.5 million pesos ($10.3 million) in confidential funds during her tenure as both vice president and education secretary.
This political escalation marks the latest development in the tumultuous career of Duterte, a 47-year-old lawyer and former city mayor whom supporters view as a potential presidential candidate in the 2028 elections. The current impeachment bids follow a previous attempt that was nullified by the Supreme Court last year due to constitutional technicalities regarding impeachment frequency.
The complaints allege systematic mishandling of government funds, with additional accusations of unexplained wealth in personal bank accounts. Notably, one filing references Duterte’s controversial November 2024 statement during an online news conference, where she reportedly threatened to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife, and the House Speaker assassinated if she were harmed amid ongoing political disputes.
Michael Poa, legal counsel for the vice president, issued a statement asserting their readiness to address the allegations through proper constitutional channels, maintaining that the accusations lack both factual foundation and legal merit.
The political drama extends beyond Duterte, as President Marcos himself faces two impeachment complaints in the House, though the chamber remains dominated by his allies. The allegations against Marcos involve purported failure to veto budgetary appropriations for infrastructure projects where kickback schemes allegedly benefited both the president and allied legislators.
This unfolding constitutional confrontation highlights the deepening fractures within Philippine politics, particularly between former allies Duterte and Marcos, whose relationship has deteriorated significantly since their previous political partnership.