Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte is facing increased political tensions after civil society and religious leaders filed Impeachment Complaint against her. The charges include 24 counts of constitutional violations, corruption, and illegal money laundering.
Details of the Impeachment Complaint
This Impeachment Complaint was filed on November 27, 2024, by a coalition comprising civil society groups, religious leaders, and former government officials. Among those involved are a priest who advocates for victims of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s “war on drugs,” a former congressman representing military families, and singer and activist Lea Navarro. The main allegations include the following:
Violation of Constitution
Allegedly violated the principle of separation of powers with Congress by not attending budget discussions as Vice President.
Corruption and money laundering
Allegedly used her office for personal gain during her tenure as Vice President and Minister of Education.
Dereliction of Duty and Incompetence
Serious deficiencies in the performance of official duties have been highlighted, along with a failure to meet public expectations. In announcing the allegations, Teresita Quintos Deles, a representative from civil society, strongly criticized the vice presidency, describing it as a tool for promoting violent discourse and personal gain, as well as a shield for impunity.
Conflict with President Marcos
Vice President Sara Duterte has long been at odds with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and her recent statements have been particularly controversial: On November 23, she said that she had instructed an assassin to kill Marcos, his wife and the lower house speaker in the event that she were killed.
President Marcos, on the other hand, has expressed reluctance to go through with the impeachment process, saying that “impeachment would divert the attention of Congress and would not be in the interest of the people.
Congressional Response to the Impeachment Complaint and Future Focus
Since the Philippine House of Representatives is dominated by supporters of President Marcos, it is unclear whether the House will pass an impeachment motion.
On the other hand, if the case proceeds to an impeachment trial in the Senate, the vice president’s responsibility in Philippine politics will be severely challenged.
What is the Vice President’s Responsibility?
It is anticipated that the impeachment motion will prompt a reassessment of the role and responsibilities of the vice presidency within the context of Philippine politics. Concurrently, there is a focus on how the ongoing conflict between Vice President Duterte and the Marcos administration will influence future policies, both domestically and internationally.
