📍Manila, Philippines — Uh-oh! Vice President Sara Duterte could lose her chance to answer the serious accusations against her if she doesn’t reply in time to the Senate’s official court order.
That’s what former Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio said on Sunday in a radio interview. And if you’re wondering what that means — let’s break it down.
⏳ What Happened?
On June 10, the Senate impeachment court told VP Sara:
“You have 10 days to reply to these charges.”
That meant her deadline was June 21 — but since that day was a Saturday, her team has until Monday (June 24) to respond.
Carpio warned that if she misses that deadline, she gives up her right to officially answer the accusations. That’s a big deal in legal terms.
❌ If She Doesn’t Answer, What Happens?
“If she doesn’t file her answer, she gives up that right,” Carpio said.
“The trial won’t stop. It will still continue.”
Even if she loses the chance to reply on paper, she can still show evidence in court—but only if the Senate allows it.
Carpio explained, “It’s up to the senators to decide if they’ll let her show proof even after missing the deadline.”
🧠 What Does Carpio Think She’ll Do?
Carpio said he’s pretty sure VP Sara’s legal team will reply before the time runs out.
“They would be hurting their own case if they don’t,” he said.
“They know the rules. I think they’ll file.”
⚖️ Will the Trial Go On? Yes.
Carpio also said that even if there’s confusion, the Supreme Court can tell the Senate to continue with the impeachment trial.
“Once the Supreme Court says go, the trial will happen,” Carpio said confidently.
“What really matters is if the Senate will look into her bank records—that’s where the fight will be.”
He said the Senate’s impeachment court has the power to demand bank documents if they think something suspicious is going on.
🧾 Why Is VP Sara Being Impeached?
She’s being accused of:
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Using confidential government funds in ways that aren’t clear
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Having unexplained wealth (meaning: money or assets that can’t be properly explained)
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Being involved in extrajudicial killings back when she was mayor of Davao City
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Making assassination remarks against President Bongbong Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez
🕵️♀️ What’s Next?
The big question now is:
Will VP Sara file her answer on time, or will she stay silent and take the risk?
The Senate, the Supreme Court, and the whole country are watching closely — because what happens next could change everything in this political drama.
