A recent survey has revealed that 41% of Filipinos are in favor of impeaching Vice President Sara Duterte, signaling widespread public discontent with her leadership and the alleged mismanagement of funds. The survey, conducted by Social Weather Stations and commissioned by Stratbase Consultancy, was discussed by lawmakers on January 9, 2025, following a probe into the misuse of her office’s funds on November 25, 2024.
Assistant Majority Leader Jay Khonghun emphasized that the survey results are a clear indication of public demand for accountability, particularly concerning the PHP612.5 million in confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education during Duterte’s tenure as secretary. Khonghun stated, “The numbers don’t lie. The public is demanding accountability, and this survey reflects their growing frustration over the glaring irregularities surrounding the Vice President’s actions.”
The survey, carried out from December 12 to 18, 2024, found that while 41% supported Duterte’s impeachment, 35% were against it, and 19% remained undecided. The primary reason cited for supporting her removal was the alleged misuse of confidential funds, with 46% of respondents pointing to this issue, followed by 36% who were frustrated by her refusal to cooperate with investigations.
Three impeachment complaints have been lodged against Duterte in the House, citing various charges including constitutional violations, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, bribery, and other serious offenses. Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega stressed that these complaints are backed by substantial evidence from hearings conducted by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, which uncovered fabricated recipients and suspicious transactions linked to Duterte’s confidential funds.
Ortega remarked, “This is about accountability. The evidence against the Vice President is glaring, from the misuse of confidential funds to a pattern of governance riddled with questions. The Filipino people deserve answers, and their support for impeachment shows they are demanding transparency and justice.”
Akbayan Representative Perci Cendaña, who supported the initial impeachment complaint, noted that the survey results validate the increasing distrust towards Duterte and underscore the public’s resolve to hold leaders accountable. Cendaña added, “This significant figure reflects the growing public consensus for her removal from office, driven by mounting frustrations over her questionable leadership and actions. It is a clear indication that the Filipino people are awakening to the urgent need for accountability among our highest officials.”
The momentum for justice and integrity in governance continues to build, as the Filipino public increasingly demands transparency and accountability from their leaders.