A Sara Duterte impeachment rally took place on January 31 near the People Power Monument in Quezon City. Protesters demanded her removal from office, citing allegations of misusing ₱125 million in confidential funds within just 11 days. While many wanted accountability, some showed up to defend her.
The rally ran from 9 am to noon. Groups like Magdalo and Akbayan led the gathering, alongside other organizations. People held placards, chanted slogans, and called on Congress to act. The main issue? Allegations of misusing P125 million in confidential funds within 11 days.
Calls for Action in Congress
Akbayan party-list Representative Perci Cendaña, who backed an impeachment complaint last December, voiced his frustration. “What date is it? January is ending, and Congress has done nothing,” he said. He accused lawmakers of hesitating out of fear rather than standing for what’s right.
Chel Diokno, Akbayan’s first nominee, also addressed the crowd. He said the movement was about justice, not political fights. “People don’t care about dynasties. They care about fairness,” he said. He warned that delaying action on the case could hurt public trust in the government.
Concerns About Duterte’s Future in Politics
Magdalo’s first nominee, Eugene Louie Gonzales, took a stronger stance. He reminded the crowd that Duterte never explained how the confidential funds were spent so quickly. He also raised concerns about her possibly running for president in the future. “We survived six years of Duterte. Do you want six more?” Gonzales asked.
He added that impeachment wasn’t just about removing her from office—it was about preventing bigger problems down the road. If Congress ignores the issue, he warned, the country could face the same leadership mistakes again.
Traffic, Afternoon Protests, and Growing Frustration
The rally caused traffic jams on EDSA’s northbound lane, but ended peacefully. Protesters dispersed before noon, only for another group to gather at the EDSA Shrine later in the afternoon.
In Manila, another protest happened at Liwasang Bonifacio. The focus there went beyond Duterte. Speakers brought up issues like the rising cost of living, corruption, and unfulfilled government promises.
Actor and director Joel Lamangan took the microphone. He criticized the government’s failure to lower rice prices to P20 per kilo, a promise that had yet to be fulfilled. Gabriela party-list Representative Arlene Brosas also called for executive clemency for Mary Jane Veloso, who remains imprisoned after escaping execution in Indonesia.
Wider Issues Take Center Stage
The protests weren’t just about Duterte. Some groups called for the International Criminal Court (ICC) to act against former President Rodrigo Duterte. They accused him of human rights violations during his drug war. Others pushed for better wages, lower fuel prices, and protection for jeepney drivers facing a phaseout.
Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) chairman Teddy Casiño slammed what he called “ayuda politics.” He accused the government of using financial aid programs as a political tool. Former Gabriela party-list representative Liza Maza also spoke, criticizing President Marcos for blocking efforts to impeach Duterte.
What Happens Next
The rallies made one thing clear—people are watching. Congress is running out of time before adjourning. Protesters say delaying the impeachment case will only hurt the country. But Duterte’s supporters continue to stand by her.
With elections approaching, the pressure is growing. Will lawmakers act, or will this issue fade away? The coming weeks will decide.
