DAVAO CITY —– The House of Representatives has approved the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, marking the fourth impeachment complaint against her. House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed on Wednesday that the chamber had secured the necessary 215 signatures, surpassing 102 signatures (one-third of House membership) to formally transmit the case to the Senate for trial.
Velasco stated that the impeachment resolution will soon be formalized in the plenary, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape.
OFW Representative Marissa Magsino confirmed that a caucus was held to discuss the matter, while Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin referred to it as a party consultation. Other lawmakers, including Assistant Majority Leader Pammy Zamora, mentioned receiving a vague invitation to “See you at Romualdez Hall.” At the same time, Caloocan City 2nd District Representative Mitch Cajayon-Uy confirmed the notice originated from Speaker Martin Romualdez’s office.
The impeachment process challenges Duterte, the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, amid rising criticism from opposition groups over alleged corruption, abuse of power, and lack of accountability.
Akbayan Party-list Representative Perci Cendaña, who endorsed the first impeachment complaint, described the move as a “turning point” in Philippine politics, claiming it signals the end of the Duterte family’s stronghold.
“Sara Duterte’s expiration date from power is near. This impeachment is the people’s verdict against the Dutertes’ long-standing corruption and lack of accountability. The message is clear: the era of impunity is ending, and those who plunder and oppress will be held accountable,” Cendaña said.
He added that the Senate is now responsible for determining Duterte’s fate.
“The Senate must now rise to the occasion and match the courage demonstrated by the citizens and the House. The Filipino people are watching, and history will judge whether our senators will uphold their constitutional duty or allow political expediency to stand in the way of justice,” Cendaña stated.
Akbayan First Nominee and prominent lawyer Chel Diokno also lauded the impeachment, calling it a victory for active citizenship.
“The Senate must not falter. Will they stand with the people or enable unaccountability? The country deserves a Senate that won’t cower,” Diokno declared.
What Comes Next?
With the House forwarding the impeachment case to the Senate, the next step will be a formal trial presided over by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri. If the Senate votes by a two-thirds majority in favor of conviction, Duterte will be removed from office.
The impeachment trial is expected to draw intense public scrutiny as the Duterte political dynasty faces its most serious legal and political challenge yet.
Senators, political analysts, and constitutional experts have begun weighing in on how the trial will shape the country’s political future, with Duterte’s supporters vowing to contest the charges and opposition figures urging the Senate to hold public officials accountable.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
