Four lawmakers from Cebu voted against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte in the House of Representatives, arguing that the move could destabilize the economy and deepen political divisions. The House voted 257-25 on May 12, 2026, to transmit the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate for trial.
Dissenting Voices from Cebu
The four Cebuano representatives who opposed the impeachment were Rachel Marguerite 'Cutie' del Mar (Cebu City North), Karen Flores-Garcia (3rd District), Sun Shimura (4th District), and Girlie Veloso (Malasakit@Bayanihan Party-list). They joined 21 other lawmakers in voting against the resolution, which accuses Duterte of corruption, unexplained wealth, and misuse of confidential and intelligence funds.
The remaining Cebu delegation members—Rhea Gullas (1st District), Edsel Galeos (2nd District), Vincent Franco 'Duke' Frasco (5th District), Daphne Lagon (6th District), Peter Calderon (7th District), Eduardo 'Edu' Rama Jr. (Cebu City South), Emmarie 'Lolypop' Ouano-Dizon (Mandaue City), and Junard 'Ahong' Chan (Lapu-Lapu City)—supported the impeachment.
Reasons for Opposition
The dissenting lawmakers emphasized that Congress should prioritize issues like inflation, food security, and public safety over an impeachment trial. Representative Veloso called impeachment an 'extraordinary' remedy that must be used carefully. 'My vote reflects my belief that the nation is best served by stability, responsible governance, and unity of purpose,' she said.
Representative Del Mar noted that opposition to impeachment remains strong in her district. Representative Shimura thanked his constituents for giving him 'the courage to vote NO.' Representative Garcia consulted with local barangay captains and officials before deciding, expressing concerns that the trial would distract Congress from addressing energy problems and rising costs. 'I do not believe that the unproven allegations in the impeachment resolution rise to the level of offenses that warrant this extraordinary remedy,' Garcia added.
Historic Impeachment
This marks the second time the House has impeached Vice President Duterte, making her the first official to face impeachment twice. The case now moves to the Senate, which will convene as an impeachment court. A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate would result in her removal from office and a lifetime ban on holding public office. The dissenting votes from Cebu highlight ongoing concerns about the political and economic impact of the proceedings.
