The recent impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte has shaken the political landscape in the Philippines. The House of Representatives voted to impeach Duterte on multiple charges, including corruption, abuse of power, and making death threats against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr. The case is now set to move to the Senate, which will act as an impeachment court.
Reasons for Impeachment
The impeachment complaint against Sara Duterte includes several serious allegations:
- Corruption and Misuse of Funds: Duterte is accused of misusing 612.5 million pesos ($10.5 million) in confidential and intelligence funds during her tenure as vice president and education secretary. A House investigation raised concerns about unexplained wealth and the failure to disclose assets as required by law.
- Death Threats: Duterte allegedly made death threats against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. In a press conference, she claimed to have contracted an assassin to kill Marcos and his inner circle if she were targeted herself. Although she later stated that her remarks were not intended as a threat but rather an expression of concern for her own safety, the comments triggered a national security review and fueled further political turmoil.
- Failure to Oppose China’s Actions: Duterte’s stance on territorial disputes with China has been called into question. The complaint highlights her criticism of the Marcos administration’s approach and accuses her of remaining silent in the face of increasing Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. Lawmakers argue that her failure to take a stand undermined national security and contradicted the government’s official policies.
Marcos’ Response
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has publicly distanced himself from the impeachment proceedings, insisting that neither he nor Malacañang had a hand in it. In a press conference, Marcos emphasized that the executive branch has no role in the impeachment process, which is the sole prerogative of the House of Representatives.
Marcos stated, “Wala nga akong pakialam doon (Like I said, that is none of my business). It’s already in the House. Congressman magdedecide kung ano gagawin niya dahil pananagutan ng House of Representatives ‘yan (Congressmen will decide on what to do because that is the role of the House of Representatives)”. He reiterated that the executive cannot interfere in the impeachment process and that the decision lies with the legislative branch.
Despite his public stance, some have speculated about the political dynamics at play, given that Marcos’ eldest son, House Senior Deputy Majority Floor Leader Sandro Marcos, was the first signatory of the impeachment complaint. However, Marcos maintained that he had advised his son to “do your duty” and follow the constitutional process.
The impeachment of Sara Duterte marks a significant moment in Philippine politics, highlighting the deep political and personal differences between Duterte and Marcos. As the case moves to the Senate, the nation watches closely to see how this political drama will unfold and what it means for the future of the Duterte and Marcos political dynasties.
