Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte again in the Philippines

International Desk: PNN

Political instability in the Philippines has taken a new turn. The House of Representatives has once again voted in favor of impeaching Vice President Sara Duterte by a large margin. However, whether this decision will take effect now depends on the final verdict of the Senate.

Out of 318 members of the House of Representatives, 255 voted in favor of impeachment against Sara Duterte. 26 voted against, while 9 abstained. Since it exceeded the required one-third threshold, the matter will now formally go to the Senate for trial.

The impeachment process has intensified the ongoing political conflict between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Duterte family. According to political analysts, this situation is not only a power struggle but also a pressure point on national stability.

Impeachment committee chairman Garvil Luistro said the issue is not only legal but also related to morality and constitutional accountability. He stated that it is the responsibility of elected representatives to ensure accountability.

The charges against Sara Duterte include misuse of confidential government funds, concealment of assets, bribery, and issuing threats against important state figures. Allegations also mention suspicious financial transactions worth more than 110 million US dollars.

Another lawmaker, Terry Ridon, said this is not just a political decision but a constitutional process.

The final trial will now take place in the Senate, where a two-thirds majority is required for conviction. However, observers believe the outcome is uncertain due to recent changes in Senate leadership and shifting political dynamics.

Political analyst Cleve V. Arguelles said the overwhelming vote in the House may pressure Senate members as it reflects public opinion and political reality.

It is noteworthy that Sara Duterte and President Marcos ran together in the 2022 election but later their alliance collapsed, turning into a bitter political rivalry.

Sara Duterte has already announced her intention to run in the 2028 presidential election. The outcome of the impeachment process is expected to play a crucial role in her political future.