Palace: Marcos not blocking Duterte impeachment drive

National

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is not hindering impeachment efforts against Vice President Sara Duterte as his previous comments were merely an expression of personal opinion.

The Malacañang issued the clarification in response to accusations from lawmakers in the Makabayan bloc, who argued that Marcos’ remarks against impeaching Duterte have led to delays in the House of Representatives.

However, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin clarified that the President’s comments were not intended to influence Congress.

He explained that Marcos was simply sharing his opinion on the matter, adding that the impeachment process is the prerogative of the legislative branch, which is coequal to the executive.

In a report by the Inquirer, Bersamin said the President is not blocking the impeachment and he is not dictating to Congress.

He emphasized that Marcos cannot direct the actions of the Lower House, as it is independent in its decision-making.

Earlier this week, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro, Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel criticized Marcos for discouraging the impeachment proceedings, calling it a “dangerous obstruction” to democratic accountability.

The lawmakers believe his statements that impeachment would be a waste of time have dissuaded his allies in Congress from supporting the complaints.

The impeachment complaints, filed in December 2024, accuse Duterte of misusing millions of pesos in confidential funds during her tenure as both Vice President and Education Secretary.

The charges include violations of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, and graft.

Despite these complaints, Marcos has expressed concerns over the timing of the impeachment process, especially with the upcoming midterm elections.

He argued that the House may struggle to achieve a quorum, as lawmakers will soon focus on campaigning.

The President’s stance was supported by the Iglesia ni Cristo, which called for lawmakers to prioritize more pressing national issues over impeachment.(CMM)