FATHER AND DAUGHTER CONNECTION: Ex-President Duterte to assist Sara in legal battle

National

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to assist his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, in defending herself against multiple legal challenges she is expected to face next year.

Among the most significant issues are three impeachment complaints filed against the Vice President, as well as potential criminal charges for alleged grave threats and violations of the Anti-Terrorism Law.

Vice President Duterte, who recently appeared publicly with her father during their family’s annual gift-giving event in Davao City, confirmed that while she had declined financial support from her father, she had agreed to let him assist with her legal defense.

She explained that Duterte had offered to help as a “collaborating counsel,” preparing necessary documents and legal strategies for the cases ahead.

The impeachment complaints against Duterte focus on alleged misconduct during her tenure as Davao City mayor, as Secretary of the Department of Education, and since assuming the vice presidency.

Among the complaints she is facing include constitutional violations, misuse of confidential funds, and betraying public trust by allegedly refusing to cooperate with congressional investigations.

The Vice President's legal team is actively preparing for the cases, with each one assigned to a specific lawyer.

Despite the pressure, Duterte expressed confidence in her defense, maintaining that she had not broken any laws.

However, she also acknowledged the uncertain political landscape, particularly in the House of Representatives, where her relations with some lawmakers have been strained over budgetary issues.

If the impeachment process advances, it will involve a vote in the House to establish probable cause, followed by a trial in the Senate, where a two-thirds majority is required for conviction.

While her allies in the Senate remain uncertain, Duterte believes she can mount a strong defense against the charges.(CMM)