Wed Feb 05 11:16:07 UTC 2025: **Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte Impeached**
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte was impeached by the House of Representatives on February 5, 2025, after over 215 lawmakers signed a petition for her removal. The impeachment complaint, citing constitutional violations, betrayal of public trust, corruption, and other high crimes, will now be sent to the Senate for trial.
The move comes amid a bitter political feud between Ms. Duterte, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his allies, who constitute a majority in the House. Multiple impeachment attempts against Ms. Duterte have been made, fueled by accusations including a death threat against President Marcos, his wife, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez; alleged misuse of public funds; and her perceived failure to adequately address Chinese aggression in the disputed South China Sea.
The timing of the impeachment is noteworthy, occurring on the last day of the congressional session before midterm elections. A special session may be necessary to allow the Senate to conduct a timely trial. Ms. Duterte, a potential presidential candidate in 2028, has denied the accusations and countered with claims of corruption and weak leadership against President Marcos. The political rift between the two, who were running mates in the 2022 election, also involves differing stances on China and the legacy of the elder Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign. The ongoing investigations and legal battles are set against the backdrop of this intense political rivalry.
First Piper 