Vice President Sara Duterte Faces Impeachment Trial Challenges

Vice President Sara Duterte Calls Impeachment Trial Her “Bloodbath”

Vice President Sara Duterte has described her upcoming impeachment trial as her “crucifixion” and “my bloodbath,” claiming that the current administration is using the process as a tool for political persecution. She made these remarks during a press conference held alongside a rally titled “ICC, send Duterte home” in The Hague, Netherlands, where supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte gathered.

During the event, the vice president met with her father’s supporters at the International Criminal Court detention facility. She emphasized the political nature of the impeachment case, saying, “We have always said that the impeachment is a political persecution. It is the administration going after me after I resigned from the Cabinet.” She added, “And if it’s a persecution, it’s some sort of crucifixion against me. And so when there’s a crucifixion, there’s blood. So it’s a bloodbath. My bloodbath. So, I’m just sad that many people refuse to understand the context wherein I give statements.”

Clarifying the “Bloodbath” Comment Amid Criticism

The vice president expressed disappointment that many people misunderstood her use of the word “bloodbath” and were unwilling to grasp the context behind her statement. Her earlier remark about wanting the impeachment trial to proceed to a “bloodbath” sparked concern among some lawmakers, who warned that such language could set a harmful example for the youth.

Despite this, Duterte remains prepared to face the trial. She revealed that her legal team has been ready since 2023 after hearing about the impeachment possibility through discussions involving lawmakers. Over the years, various lawyers, including family members and government legal offices, have handled cases against her. For the impeachment, her office suggested the Fortun-Narvasa-Salazar Law Offices to represent her.

She assured the public that her defense team would vigorously protect her rights and respond to all accusations. On a personal level, Duterte shared that she feels emotionally and physically ready, stating, “I don’t feel anything at all anymore about the impeachment.” She maintains her health by ensuring adequate rest and following medical advice on vitamins.

Concerns Over Impeachment Proceedings and House Actions

Vice President Duterte questioned the rapid pace at which the House of Representatives moved to impeach her on February 5. She asked, “How fast do you get signatures of 300 plus congressmen in just a span of a few hours wherein we question if the members of the House of Representatives who signed, read the articles of impeachment?”

She also alleged that lawmakers attempted to gather evidence against her during the Office of the Vice President’s budget hearing. When this effort failed, they began an investigation related to confidential funds, but only her office was summoned to testify while other departments were not invited.

Duterte recalled that her staff faced harassment and threats during the budget inquiry. After failing to find incriminating evidence, the Articles of Impeachment were filed. She claimed that at least three of the articles did not follow proper procedures.

The House impeached Duterte in early February, and the Articles of Impeachment were sent to the Senate the same day. However, the Senate did not immediately hold a special session to take up the trial during its recess.

The complaint includes seven Articles of Impeachment, covering allegations such as betrayal of public trust related to assassination threats, misuse of public funds, bribery within the Department of Education, unexplained wealth, involvement in extrajudicial killings, destabilization plots, and conduct unbecoming of the vice presidency.

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