Public Clamor for Vice President Sara Duterte Impeachment Trial Intensifies
The growing public clamor for Vice President Sara Duterte impeachment trial has the potential to influence the Senate impeachment court to begin proceedings soon, local leaders noted. A recent survey revealed that 66 percent of Filipinos believe Duterte should face the impeachment court, underscoring widespread demand for accountability.
Two lawmakers from different party-lists shared their views on how this public sentiment could pressure the Senate. Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno recalled past impeachment cases where public demand played a crucial role. “In my experience in all previous impeachment cases, public clamor has always been a significant factor,” Diokno said during a press briefing at the Batasang Pambansa complex. “Impeachment is not just a legal process but a political one as well. Senators, many eyeing reelection, consider how their decisions affect public opinion.”
Survey Highlights Transparency Concerns
ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the survey revealed Filipinos’ desire for transparency regarding the confidential fund expenditures linked to Duterte’s office. “The survey shows an overwhelming sentiment that VP Sara must explain how confidential funds were used. The impeachment trial is the proper venue for this,” Tinio said in an impromptu interview.
He urged the Senate to act swiftly once the 20th Congress convenes, calling to “start the trial immediately without hesitation or delays.”
Tinio also noted public patience is wearing thin. “The longer the trial is delayed, the more people’s frustration grows. They want answers about the ₱612.5 million confidential funds,” he added. “This 66 percent majority clearly reflects the public’s demand for truth and resolution through an impeachment trial.”
Impeachment Process and Challenges
The Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, commissioned by a local think tank and released recently, found that 66 percent of respondents support Duterte facing the impeachment court. Only 19 percent opposed, while 15 percent remained undecided.
On February 5, Duterte was formally impeached after 215 lawmakers signed a complaint citing alleged misuse of confidential funds, threats to officials, and constitutional violations. The complaint was promptly forwarded to the Senate, which constitutionally must begin the trial if one-third of House members endorse the petition.
However, delays have stalled the trial. Following the election season, some lawmakers expected the trial to start. Senate President during the 19th Congress invited the prosecution team to present the articles of impeachment on June 2, but the date was postponed to June 11, the final session day.
When the Senate convened as an impeachment court on June 10, it voted to return the complaint to the House due to supposed constitutional issues. The Senate insists on two conditions before proceeding: a certification that no other impeachment proceeding against Duterte has occurred within the year, and confirmation that the prosecution team in the new Congress intends to continue the case.
The House has met the first condition, but the prosecution team can only address the second after the 20th Congress opens on July 28, just before the State of the Nation Address.
Constitutional Mandate for Trial
Rumors suggest the senator-judges might dismiss the impeachment complaint without trial. Yet, prosecution spokespeople emphasize the Constitution requires a full trial, not merely a hearing.
Article XI, Section 3(6) of the 1987 Constitution states the Senate “shall have the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment,” highlighting the legal obligation to conduct a trial.
Local leaders conclude that the mounting public clamor for Vice President Sara Duterte impeachment trial strengthens calls for transparency and justice. The people’s voice, as reflected in surveys and public sentiment, could be the decisive factor in moving the process forward.
For more news and updates on Vice President Sara Duterte impeachment trial, visit Filipinokami.com.
