The House of Representatives has successfully gathered 153 signatures, exceeding the necessary threshold to move forward with a fourth impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, as confirmed by House Secretary General Reginald Velasco on Wednesday. The required number of signatures, which is one-third of the House’s total membership, stands at 102, and the collected signatures will now allow the case to be sent to the Senate for a trial. Velasco mentioned that the process will be officially recognized in the plenary session.
This impeachment effort targets Sara Duterte, the offspring of former President Rodrigo Duterte, amidst increasing scrutiny and criticism from opposition factions. Akbayan party-list Representative Perci Cendaña, who supported the initial impeachment complaint, views this as a significant move towards diminishing the Duterte family’s political sway. Cendaña stated, “Sara Duterte’s time in power is drawing to a close. This impeachment reflects the public’s judgment on the Dutertes’ prolonged corruption and lack of accountability. It sends a clear message: the days of unchecked power are over, and those who engage in corruption and oppression will face consequences.”
Cendaña emphasized that the battle for accountability is now shifting to the Senate, urging them to demonstrate the same bravery shown by the public and the House. He remarked, “The Filipino people are observing, and history will evaluate whether our senators will fulfill their constitutional responsibilities or let political convenience obstruct justice.”
Akbayan’s First Nominee, lawyer Chel Diokno, also celebrated the impeachment move, describing it as a demonstration of the strength of engaged citizenship. He challenged the Senate, saying, “They must not waver. Will they align with the people or perpetuate a lack of accountability? The nation needs a Senate that stands firm.”