House Committee Issues Subpoena to Ombudsman for Duterte's SALN in Impeachment Probe
The House of Representatives has taken a decisive step in the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte by formally summoning Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla. In a move aimed at uncovering critical financial evidence, the House Committee on Justice, led by chairperson and Batangas Representative Gerville Luistro, alongside House Speaker Faustino Bojie Dy III, has issued a subpoena testificandum et duces tecum.
Demand for Certified SALN Records from Key Periods
This legal directive mandates Ombudsman Remulla to appear at the upcoming impeachment hearing and produce certified true copies of Vice President Duterte's Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN). Specifically, the subpoena covers the years from 2022 to 2025, as well as the earlier period from 2007 to 2013. The committee has also reminded the Ombudsman of his rights in this process, ensuring procedural fairness.
Rooted in Committee Revelations and Legislative Motion
The issuance of the subpoena stems from a motion filed by Manila Representative Joel Chua, which garnered 34 favorable votes on March 25. Chua argued that this action is essential to obtain vital evidence, based on a letter-motion from Akbayan party-list Representative Chel Diokno. The motion was prompted by shocking revelations during committee hearings, which alleged that Duterte's wealth surged by over 1,000 percent within several years.
Controversy and Opposition in the House
However, the move has not been without controversy. Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez opposed the subpoena, labeling it a fishing expedition. He contended that the remaining impeachment complaints lack ultimate facts directly linking to the Vice President's SALN. Despite this, Bicol Saro party-list Representative Terry Ridon emphasized the staggering financial data, noting that Duterte's net worth ballooned from P7.2 million in 2007, when she first entered government service, to P88.51 million in 2024—a dramatic increase of 1,120 percent.
Ongoing Impeachment Complaints and Constitutional Allegations
Currently, two of the original four impeachment complaints remain active, focusing on allegations of misuse of confidential funds, bribery, and other violations of the 1987 Constitution. The subpoena for SALN records is seen as a crucial element in these proceedings, potentially providing concrete evidence to support or refute the claims. As the impeachment hearing approaches, all eyes are on the Ombudsman's response and the potential impact on the Vice President's political future.
