With time running out, lawmakers push to fast-track Duterte impeachment

National

AS THE deadline for legislative action nears, members of the House of Representatives are pushing to fast-track the three impeachment complaints filed against Vice President Sara Duterte.

With the February 7 congressional break approaching, officials are looking to expedite the proceedings to prevent delays caused by the upcoming election campaign period.

House Secretary-General Reginald Velasco confirmed that the complaints are still in his office but assured that action would be taken this week.

He emphasized that if at least 103 members of the House endorse one of the complaints, it could bypass committee deliberations and go straight to the Senate for an impeachment trial.

However, the complaints have yet to gain sufficient support from lawmakers, slowing the process.

The Vice President, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces accusations related to her controversial behavior and remarks.

Among the grounds cited is her public meltdown in November 2024, in which she threatened violence against key government figures, including President Ferdinand Marcos, his wife, and Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Critics argue that these actions undermine public trust and violate democratic principles.

While the House is still awaiting more endorsers, Velasco noted that the impeachment complaints could be referred to Romualdez soon.

The absence of sufficient endorsers has hindered progress, with the election season further complicating the matter.

Malacañang has stated that the impeachment process is solely within the jurisdiction of the House, and President Marcos has expressed opposition to the impeachment, calling it a waste of time that won’t impact the lives of Filipinos.

Despite the hurdles, lawmakers like Rep. Gabriel Bordado, who endorsed the third impeachment complaint, argue that holding public officials accountable is critical to upholding democracy and the rule of law.(CMM)