The House Committee on Justice has unanimously approved a report and resolution that sets the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte, moving the process forward for a plenary vote scheduled on May 11. This development follows the consolidation of two verified complaints, which together outline four major charges against the Vice President.
Charges Against Vice President Duterte
The committee report details allegations of misuse or abuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth and incomplete disclosures in her Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), bribery and graft and corruption involving officials under her office, and alleged threats linked to a supposed plot against top government officials, including the President. Lawmakers cited findings from the Commission on Audit, the Anti-Money Laundering Council, and testimonies from auditors, forensic experts, and other witnesses as the basis for these charges.
Next Steps in the Impeachment Process
House officials have indicated that plenary debates are expected to take place this week, with a vote scheduled for May 11. Lawmakers expressed confidence that the required 106 votes for impeachment will be reached. If the House approves the Articles of Impeachment, they are expected to be transmitted to the Senate by May 12. Senate President Vicente Sotto III earlier stated that the chamber may convene as an impeachment court by May 13.
Potential Timeline for Senate Trial
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said the trial proper could begin in June, following pre-trial proceedings that will include the issuance of summonses, filing of replies, and a preliminary conference to define issues and evidence. This timeline suggests a thorough process ahead for the upper chamber.
Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima, a member of the justice panel, emphasized that a conviction on even one article would be sufficient to remove Duterte from office and bar her from holding public office in the future. The coming weeks will be critical as the impeachment process unfolds in both the House and the Senate.
