Vice President Sara Duterte, now facing an impeachment trial in the Senate, broke her silence on the matter, delivering a strong yet simple message: “God Save the Philippines.”
No Plans to Resign Amid Impeachment Battle
Two days after 215 members of the House of Representatives officially endorsed her impeachment, Duterte reaffirmed that she has no intention of stepping down. Despite months of speculation, she stated that at this point, her only response is to put the country’s fate in God’s hands.
When asked if she felt betrayed by lawmakers who voted for her impeachment, including some of her political allies, Duterte responded in a strikingly detached manner:
“Do I feel betrayed? Actually, I have no feelings about it. I don’t move in political circles. I have friends, but close personal relationships? None.”
Looking Ahead: No 2025 Presidential Run for Now
Addressing rumors about her potential presidential bid in 2025, Duterte dismissed them as premature. “It’s too early to think about that,” she said, adding that legal experts are currently handling her impeachment case. She also noted that she would first evaluate her performance in public opinion polls before making any political moves.
Massive Legal Support & Father’s Role in the Trial
Since the impeachment process began, Duterte revealed that many lawyers have volunteered to join her defense team. While her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, could technically participate, she hinted that his deteriorating health might prevent him from taking a leading role.
Calls for Peaceful Support
Duterte urged her supporters not to take to the streets in protest. Instead, she encouraged them to voice their opinions online. She also criticized the country’s endless political infighting, claiming it has held the Philippines back from progress.
“We look pathetic on the world stage. Other nations see us and shake their heads.”
House Support for Impeachment Grows
Meanwhile, the number of House representatives backing the impeachment continues to rise. House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed that 25 more lawmakers have submitted formal support, bringing the total to 240 out of 306 representatives. If accepted by the Senate, this will make Duterte’s impeachment one of the most overwhelming in Philippine history.
The ruling Lakas-CMD party, as well as members from various political groups, have thrown their weight behind the motion. Some of the notable names include:
- Zaldy Co (Ako Bicol Partylist)
- Arthur Celeste (Nacionalista Party, Pangasinan)
- Adrian Jay Advincula (National Unity Party, Cavite)
- Noel Rivera (Nationalist People’s Coalition, Tarlac)
- Alfonso Umali Jr. (Liberal Party, Oriental Mindoro)
- Richelle Singson (Ako Ilocano Ako Partylist)
The Allegations: What’s at Stake?
Duterte faces serious charges, including:
Violation of the Constitution
Betrayal of Public Trust
Graft and Corruption
High Crimes
One of the most shocking accusations in the 44-page impeachment complaint is an alleged plot to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Duterte has strongly denied these claims, saying her past statements were misinterpreted.
“I never threatened to assassinate the president. That’s their own interpretation.”
What’s Next? Senate Trial Timeline
Senate President Francis Escudero announced that Duterte’s trial will likely start after the May 12 elections and may not conclude until the next Congress takes over in July.
Meanwhile, President Marcos has distanced himself from the impeachment process, stating that Congress is acting independently. “You give me too much credit,” he told reporters, dismissing rumors that he orchestrated the move against Duterte.
The Verdict: Will She Stay or Go?
If convicted, Duterte will be permanently banned from running for public office. However, if she resigns before conviction, she could potentially stage a political comeback in the future.
For now, the fight is far from over, and all eyes are on how Duterte and her legal team will defend her position in what could be one of the most dramatic political trials in Philippine history.
