MANILA, Philippines — A significant majority of Filipinos, 66 percent, believe Vice President Sara Duterte should face the impeachment court to formally address the allegations against her, according to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.
The SWS survey, commissioned by a local research group, revealed that most respondents agree the Vice President must confront the corruption charges through the proper legal impeachment process. Only 19 percent disagreed, while 15 percent remained undecided.
Regional Support for Vice President Sara Duterte Impeachment Court
Breaking down the support by region, Metro Manila leads with 76 percent in favor of the impeachment trial, accompanied by 15 percent opposed and 9 percent undecided. Balance Luzon follows with 69 percent support, 16 percent opposition, and 15 percent unsure. Visayas recorded 67 percent backing the trial, 20 percent opposing, and 13 percent undecided.
Meanwhile, Mindanao showed the lowest support yet maintained a majority at 55 percent in favor, 26 percent against, and 19 percent undecided.
Awareness Levels and Public Perception
Regarding awareness, 59 percent of respondents said they were already aware of the impeachment complaint against Duterte before the survey, whereas 41 percent learned about it during the survey itself. Awareness was highest in Metro Manila at 68 percent, followed by the Visayas at 64 percent, Balance Luzon at 57 percent, and Mindanao at 52 percent.
Furthermore, 44 percent of those surveyed believe the Senate is intentionally delaying the start of the impeachment trial. Meanwhile, 25 percent do not believe in such delays, 22 percent remain undecided, and 9 percent said they lack sufficient information.
Public Vigilance Demands Accountability
In response to the findings, a local research group leader highlighted that the high awareness levels reflect a vigilant and engaged Filipino public. “Filipinos are watching closely and expect the country’s democratic institutions, particularly the Senate, to act decisively and impartially,” he said.
He added, “When half the population is already informed about an ongoing impeachment case, it shows that citizens are not just passive observers. They are actively following developments, asking questions, and expecting accountability from public officials.”
He urged the Senate to fulfill its constitutional mandate without political interference or unnecessary delays. “Transparency, accountability, and due process are the foundations of a functioning democracy. Any perception of delay or inaction risks undermining public trust—not just in individuals but in the system itself,” he noted.
Senate Trial and Delays Surrounding the Case
Vice President Sara Duterte is set to face the Senate impeachment trial following accusations of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the constitution, graft and corruption, and other serious charges. She was impeached by the House of Representatives on February 5.
However, the impeachment process has faced multiple delays. The Senate initially refused to begin the trial until after its recess. Even after starting, the trial was remanded, and the Supreme Court is also reviewing petitions related to the impeachment. Some lawmakers warn that these developments might push the trial as far as December.
For more news and updates on Vice President Sara Duterte impeachment court, visit Filipinokami.com.
