President Denies Plans for Impeachment Trial
Malacañang clarified on Wednesday that President Ferdinand ”Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is not pushing for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in the Senate. This statement came amid questions about the administration’s stance given the expected changes in the Senate after the 2025 midterm elections.
During a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro was asked if the administration was confident about pursuing the impeachment trial of the Vice President. Castro responded firmly, “Wala pong anumang balita patungkol sa pag-pursue ng Pangulo sa impeachment o sa impeachment trial ni VP Sara so iyan po ay ating tinututulan at pinasisinungalingan po.” (There’s no news about the President pursuing the impeachment or the impeachment trial of VP Sara so we’re belying that.)
She added, “Wala pong sinasabing anumang pagkumpiyansa na para mapatalsik o matanggal sa puwesto ang Bise Presidente.” (We did not issue any statement saying that we are confident that the Vice President will be removed from office.)
Background on the Vice President’s Impeachment
Despite running together in the 2022 elections, the relationship between President Marcos and Vice President Duterte has reportedly soured. On February 5, the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte, with over 200 congressmen supporting the complaint against her.
She faces multiple allegations including betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution, graft and corruption, and other serious charges. Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has already outlined an initial schedule for the impeachment trial, with a tentative start date of July 30.
According to the timeline, the Articles of Impeachment are set to be presented on June 2 as the Senate resumes session. The following day will see the formal convening of the impeachment court and the oath-taking of senator-judges.
Vice President’s Legal Response and Readiness
In response to the impeachment, Vice President Duterte has filed a petition for certiorari and prohibition, along with an urgent application for a temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction before the Supreme Court.
Recently, Duterte expressed her readiness to face whatever outcome her impeachment trial in the Senate might bring. She remains firm despite the ongoing proceedings and political tensions.
For continuing updates on this developing political story, visit Filipinokami.com.