Vice President Sara Duterte Welcomes Impeachment Trial
Vice President Sara Duterte expressed willingness to face impeachment proceedings, stating that the impeachment trial before the senator-judges will help clear her name amid allegations of misuse of public funds. She strongly supports the recent survey showing that the majority of Filipinos want her to confront the accusations head-on.
In an interview after visiting former President Rodrigo Duterte at Scheveningen Prison in The Hague, Netherlands, she said, “Oh, I totally agree. Kasama ako doon sa 88 percent na iyan na nagsasabi at ako ay parang thankful sa opportunity na malinis iyong pangalan ko at masagot iyong mga akusasyon sa akin.” This remark highlights her readiness to defend herself and respond to the allegations.
A recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that 88 percent of respondents favor the Vice President facing the impeachment charges. This strong public sentiment reflects the call for transparency and accountability in government.
Delay in Impeachment Hearing and Its Implications
The impeachment trial’s start date was postponed from June 2 to June 11 by the Senate President to prioritize pending legislative matters during the 19th Congress. When asked about this delay, Duterte remained unfazed, saying, “Wala naman siyang epekto sa akin. Nag-iisip lang ako kung ano ‘yung epekto nung delay doon sa kaso.” She added that the legal team would assess any potential impact this postponement might have on the case.
This delay has sparked discussions about whether the impeachment trial will push through before the 19th Congress ends on June 30. Political analysts note that the jurisdiction of the incoming 20th Congress over cases filed in the previous Congress remains uncertain, adding complexity to the situation.
Summary of Impeachment Charges Against Vice President
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, forwarding seven Articles of Impeachment to the Senate. These charges include:
- Betrayal of public trust for alleged assassination threats against President Marcos, his spouse, and the House Speaker.
- Betrayal of public trust and corruption related to misuse of public funds, especially confidential funds.
- Betrayal of public trust and bribery within the Department of Education.
- Violation of the Constitution and unexplained wealth accumulation.
- Commission of high crimes linked to extrajudicial killings.
- Betrayal of public trust due to alleged destabilization plots.
- Unbecoming conduct as Vice President.
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Duterte has shown determination to clear her name through the impeachment process. The Senate has yet to convene a special session during the recess to formally begin the trial, which adds to the uncertainties surrounding the timeline.
Looking Ahead: Legal and Political Considerations
The Vice President’s legal team is expected to closely monitor the developments and prepare to address any challenges arising from the delayed schedule. Meanwhile, political observers remain watchful of how both the current and incoming Congresses will handle this high-profile case.
For more news and updates on Vice President Sara Duterte impeachment trial, visit Filipinokami.com.