Lawmakers admit no enough time to tackle Duterte impeachment

National

THE majority bloc in the House of Representatives appears uninterested in moving forward with the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, citing a lack of time as the primary obstacle.

With only five session days remaining in the 19th Congress, lawmakers are doubtful they can effectively deliberate on the three impeachment complaints filed against Duterte.

Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, the assistant minority leader of the Commission on Appointments, emphasized the lack of time, stating, "there is no more material time to deliberate on the impeachment of the Vice President."

Pimentel pointed out that with the congressional session wrapping up soon and the upcoming campaign period for national elections starting in mid-February, it is unlikely that the impeachment process will progress.

La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega, a deputy majority leader, echoed similar sentiments.

While he confirmed that the majority isn't "cold" to the impeachment, Ortega acknowledged that the timing is an issue.

He further explained that discussions on the matter have not yet gained traction due to the looming time constraints.

The impeachment complaints, filed in December 2024, accuse Duterte of misusing P612.5 million in confidential funds.

Despite these allegations, the decision to move forward with the impeachment largely rests with the majority bloc, which controls the House's agenda.

However, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco has yet to send the complaints to the Speaker's office, pending a possible fourth complaint from certain majority members.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also weighed in, stating that pursuing the impeachment would be poor timing given the current political landscape.(CMM)