MANILA, Philippines — The House Committee on Justice has found probable cause to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, bringing the case a step closer to a decisive vote in the plenary.
In a unanimous decision, all 53 members of the panel supported the finding after reviewing consolidated impeachment complaints alleging misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, and threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his family.
The committee’s report will be elevated to the House plenary when Congress resumes session. Lawmakers are expected to vote on the impeachment complaint in the second week of May, according to House officials, setting the stage for a potentially historic proceeding.
Under the Constitution, at least one-third of all House members must affirm the articles of impeachment for the case to be transmitted to the Senate, which will sit as an impeachment court. A conviction would result in Duterte’s removal from office and disqualification from holding any public position.
The complaints were filed by civil society groups and progressive organizations, citing alleged irregularities in the use of confidential funds, undisclosed financial transactions, and statements perceived as threats against top government officials.
Duterte has denied the allegations, maintaining that the impeachment effort is politically motivated. Her legal team also questioned the proceedings before the House panel, arguing that the issues raised should be settled in a full trial.
The development comes amid deepening political tensions between Duterte and Marcos, erstwhile allies in the 2022 national elections, as speculation persists over her potential presidential bid in 2028.
If the impeachment moves forward, Duterte would join a small group of high-ranking Philippine officials subjected to the process, with only one conviction recorded in the country’s history.
