Philippine vice president impeached by House
The political landscape in the Philippines took a dramatic turn as the lower house impeached Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday, accusing her of a range of crimes including plotting to assassinate the president, corruption, and failing to confront China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea. This move has deepened the political divide between Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., two of the country’s highest leaders.
The impeachment complaint, signed by at least 215 legislators in the lower house, was swiftly transmitted to the Senate where Duterte will face trial. Among the signatories were President Marcos Jr.’s son and cousin, indicating strong support for the impeachment process. The petition called for Duterte’s removal from office and a ban on holding public office, citing her “gross unfitness to hold public office and infidelity to the laws and the 1987 Constitution.”
Duterte’s brother, Rep. Paolo Duterte, denounced the impeachment as “a clear act of political persecution,” accusing rival lawmakers of pushing a baseless case to the Senate. Duterte and Marcos had formed an alliance during the 2022 elections, promising unity in a deeply divided country. However, their relationship soured quickly after assuming office.
The impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte focuses on a death threat she made against President Marcos, his wife, and the House speaker, as well as allegations of corruption and failure to address Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. Duterte’s statements about hiring an assassin set off a national security investigation, further complicating her political standing.
The impeachment also highlights irregularities in the use of intelligence funds, unexplained wealth, and failure to declare assets as required by law. Duterte’s refusal to respond to questions during televised hearings has fueled suspicions of corruption and misconduct. The complaint accuses her of undermining government policies, particularly regarding territorial disputes with China, and silence on China’s assertive actions in the disputed waters.
As the political drama unfolds, Duterte has continued to criticize President Marcos, his wife, and the House speaker, accusing them of corruption and attempting to silence her potential presidential aspirations in 2028. The rift between the two leaders has widened, setting the stage for a contentious impeachment trial in the Senate.
The impeachment of Vice President Duterte marks a significant moment in the Philippines’ political landscape, with repercussions that could shape the country’s future. As the trial unfolds, the nation will be closely watching the outcome and its impact on the ongoing power struggle between key political figures.
