House Justice Committee Issues Multiple Subpoenas in VP Duterte Impeachment Investigation
The House Committee on Justice has taken significant steps in the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte by issuing a series of subpoenas for both critical documents and the appearance of several key individuals. This development occurred during the panel's hearing on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal and political scrutiny.
Comprehensive Document Requests Target Multiple Periods
The committee has formally requested the submission of several crucial documents that span Duterte's political career. Among the most notable demands are the statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALNs) covering her tenure as mayor of Davao City from 2007 to 2013 and again from 2016 to 2022, as well as her period as Vice President from 2022 to 2025. These documents are to be obtained directly from the Office of the Ombudsman, highlighting the committee's focus on financial transparency and accountability.
Key Individuals and Investigation Records Subpoenaed
In addition to document requests, the committee has subpoenaed several individuals whose testimonies and records are deemed essential to the investigation. These include:
- Records from the National Bureau of Investigation concerning the probe into Duterte's alleged threats against President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
- The protective custody and affidavit of Ramil Madriaga, dated November 29, 2025, who has claimed that Duterte's 2022 campaign was financed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and drug-linked financiers.
- Atty. Michael Poa, who served as Duterte's chief of staff during her time as Education secretary from 2022 to 2023.
- Atty. Cynthia Viñas-Pantonal, the notary public who authenticated Madriaga's affidavit.
- Commission on Audit team leader Atty. Gloria Camora, in relation to the confidential funds allocated to the Department of Education under Duterte's leadership.
- A representative from the Securities and Exchange Commission to provide financial statements for Duterte and her husband.
- Duterte's income tax returns (ITRs), adding another layer to the financial scrutiny.
Duterte's Absence and Legal Defense
Vice President Sara Duterte notably refused to attend the House Committee on Justice hearing, defending her absence on both legal and political grounds. She asserted that her non-appearance is legally permissible and represents a stand against what she describes as politically motivated proceedings. This move underscores the contentious nature of the impeachment complaints and the broader political tensions surrounding the investigation.
The issuance of these subpoenas signals a deepening of the impeachment process, with the committee seeking to gather comprehensive evidence and testimonies. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on the allegations of misconduct and the legal frameworks governing such high-profile cases. The outcomes of these subpoenas could significantly impact the trajectory of the impeachment complaints and the political landscape in the Philippines.
