By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Chiz Escudero has shared the proposed calendar for Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment.
Below is the timetable released by Escudero:
2 June 2025 – Resumption of session; presentation of the Articles of Impeachment by the prosecutors; and approval of the revised Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials (3:00 p.m.).
3 June 2025 – Convening of the Impeachment Court and oath-taking of incumbent Senator-judges (9:00 a.m.).
4 June 2025 – Issuance of summons.
14 to 24 June 2025 – Reception of pleadings.
24 June to 25 July 2025 – Pre-Trial.
28 July 2025 – Inaugural session of the Senate for the 20th Congress (10:00 a.m.); Joint Session of Congress to hear the President’s State of the Nation Address (4:00 p.m.).
29 July 2025 – Oath-taking of newly elected Senator-judges before the Senate sitting as an Impeachment Court (9:00 a.m.); plenary session of the Senate (3:00 p.m.).
30 July 2025 – Start of trial (9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.).
Escudero also disclosed that he had signed Special Order No. 2025-015 (OSP) Series of 2025 to establish an administrative support group that will assist the Senate when it convenes as an Impeachment Court for Duterte’s trial.
“This Special Order is vital to ensure that the Senate, in its role as an Impeachment Court, operates smoothly and efficiently. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of justice and due process throughout the proceedings,” Escudero said upon issuing the order.
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MANILA — In a historic decision, the House of Representatives on Wednesday (05 Feb 2025) impeached Vice President Sara Duterte, citing a series of grave allegations, including conspiracy to assassinate President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., large-scale corruption, abuse of public funds in the use of, and involvement in extrajudicial killings.
215 lawmakers, crossing party lines, voted to approve the seven Articles of Impeachment, marking the first time in Philippine history that a sitting vice president faces impeachment. The move sets the stage for a Senate trial that could determine Duterte’s removal from office.
“There is a motion to direct the Secretary General to immediately endorse to the Senate the impeachment complaint having been filed by more than one-third of the membership of the House or a total of members. Is there any objection? The chair hears none. The motion is approved. The Secretary General is so directed,” Speaker Romualdez.
11-member House Prosecution Panel
The House of Representatives also elected the 11-member House Prosecution Panel, composed of 1. Reps. Gerville “Jinky Bitrics” R. Luistro, 2. Romeo Acop, 3. Rodge Gutierrez, 4. Joel Chua, 5. Jil Bongalon, 6. Loreto Acharon, 7. Marcelino Libanan, 8. Arnan C. Panaligan, 9. Ysabel Maria J. Zamora, 10. Lorenz R. Defensor, and 11. Jonathan Keith T. Flores.
“This is about upholding the Constitution and ensuring that no public official, regardless of their position, is above the law,” Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez stated after the vote.
6 major allegations
The impeachment complaint against Duterte revolves around six major allegations, each linked to alleged violations of the 1987 Constitution, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and other laws. These are:
1. Conspiracy to Assassinate President Marcos, First Lady, and Speaker Romualdez
One of the most damning accusations involves an alleged plot by Duterte to assassinate President Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Romualdez.
House investigators presented evidence of Duterte’s own public admissions, where she allegedly claimed she hired an assassin to kill top government leaders. Duterte had also previously spoken about “imagining” the decapitation of the President, statements that fueled national security concerns. Lawmakers argued that allowing Duterte to remain in office poses a direct threat to national stability, making impeachment necessary.”
2. Malversation of P612.5 Million in Confidential Funds
Duterte is accused of misusing and illegally disbursing P612.5 million in confidential funds during her tenure as Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary. Investigators found:
* P254.8 million in questionable disbursements under the Office of the Vice President (OVP), linked to 1,322 fictitious beneficiaries who had no birth records.
* P43.2 million in alleged ghost transactions involving 405 fake names under the DepEd confidential fund.
* Special Disbursing Officers (SDOs) testified that they were ordered to hand over confidential funds to unauthorized individuals.
These blatant financial irregularities constitute technical malversation, graft, and corruption, forming a strong case for impeachment.
3. Bribery and Corruption in DepEd
Duterte is also accused of bribery and financial manipulation within DepEd. Evidence suggests she approved monetary gifts and bribes to high-ranking officials handling procurement and bidding processes.
Among those implicated are:
* Former DepEd Undersecretary Gloria Jumamil-Mercado (Procurement Head)
* Bids and Awards Committee Member Resty Osias
* DepEd Chief Accountant Rhunna Catalan
* Special Disbursing Officer Edward Fajarda
Investigations further revealed that Atty. Reynold Munsayac, Duterte’s former spokesperson, attempted to rig the DepEd Computerization Program in favor of preferred contractors, an act violating Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act).
4. Unexplained Wealth and Failure to Disclose Assets
Scrutiny of Duterte’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) revealed:
* A quadrupling of her net worth from 2007 to 2017, without a legitimate increase in income.
* At least P2 billion in suspicious transactions linked to joint bank accounts shared with former President Rodrigo Duterte.
* Total unexplained income of P111.6 million from 2006 to 2015.
Failure to fully disclose assets and sources of income is a culpable violation of Section 17, Article XI of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, further justifying her impeachment.
5. Involvement in Extrajudicial Killings (Davao Death Squad)
Former police officer SPO4 Arturo Lascanas testified that Duterte was involved in the Davao Death Squad (DDS) during her time as Mayor of Davao City.
According to Lascanas:
* Duterte personally ordered assassinations under Operation Tokhang.
* Bodies of victims were secretly buried in mass graves at Laud Quarry.
These allegations tie Duterte to gross human rights violations and strengthen the impeachment case under crimes against humanity and abuse of authority.
6. Destabilization, Insurrection, and Public Disorder
Duterte is accused of engaging in acts aimed at destabilizing the Philippine government, including:
* Boycotting the State of the Nation Address (SONA) while declaring herself “designated survivor.”
* Leading rallies calling for President Marcos Jr.’s resignation.
* Publicly defending fugitive pastor Apollo Quiboloy, a known ally accused of serious crimes.
* Obstructing congressional investigations by ordering subordinates not to comply with subpoenas.
* Threatening bodily harm against the President, First Lady, and Speaker Romualdez.
Lawmakers classified these actions as sedition and insurrection, further cementing Duterte’s impeachment.
Following the House vote, Speaker Romualdez immediately transmitted the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate, where Duterte will face trial in the Impeachment Court.
A two-thirds vote by the Senate is required to convict and remove Duterte from office. If convicted, she will also be permanently barred from holding any public office in the future.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte may have made waves on social media with the word “shemenit,” but her popularity nationwide appears to be dwindling.
This is evident in the latest Pulse Asia survey conducted in November but released only on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
Political analysts told Maharlika NuMedia that this decline could be attributed to Duterte’s perceived “bratinella” behavior amid her ongoing conflict with the Romualdez-led House of Representatives.
The House has been investigating the alleged misuse of her office’s confidential and intelligence funds.
According to the Pulse Asia survey, Duterte’s trust rating fell from 61% in September to 49% in November.
Her highest trust rating remained in Mindanao at 81%, though this marked a 9-percentage-point drop from 90% in September.
Meanwhile, her ratings took a sharper plunge in the Visayas, dropping from 74% to 47%.
In Luzon and Metro Manila, her trust scores also fell, from 47% to 37% and from 37% to 34%, respectively.
The Vice President’s approval rating similarly declined, falling to 50% in November from 60% in September.
In Mindanao, her approval score dropped to 80%, down from 93% in September.
In the Visayas, it fell by 20 percentage points, from 71% to 51%. In Luzon and Metro Manila, her scores slid to 40% (from 46%) and 34% (from 36%), respectively.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte’s statement that impeachment is the “proper venue” to address allegations against her has drawn sharp criticism from leaders of the House of Representatives, who accused her of sidestepping accountability and consistently avoiding opportunities to clarify pressing concerns.
Duterte claimed over the weekend that impeachment would allow her to address accusations in a formal and rule-bound setting, calling it an “inconvenience” but acceptable.
However, House Assistant Majority Leaders Jay Khonghun (Zambales, 1st District) and Jude Acidre (Tingog Partylist) were quick to point out what they described as a pattern of evasion, citing Duterte’s refusal to take part in congressional hearings and a probe by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Deputy Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Francisco Paolo Ortega V, meanwhile, questioned the sincerity of the Vice President’s statement.
Khonghun, who also chairs the House Special Committee on Bases Conversion, called Duterte’s remarks another example of what he described as “lip service” to accountability.
“Again, it’s another lip service ng ating Bise Presidente dahil nakikita naman natin na napakadaming pagkakataon na kailangan niyang magpaliwanag, hindi naman siya nagpapaliwanag,” Khonghun told a press conference.
“Ngayon ang sinasabi niya through impeachment ay makakapagpaliwanag siya. Pero nakikita naman natin, in-snub niya ang hearing sa Kongreso, in-snub niya ang hearing sa NBI, hindi siya nagpupunta, hindi nagpapakita,” he added. “So mahirap talaga magpaliwanag kung hindi mo alam kung paano mo ipapaliwanag ang iyong mga ginagawa. Sana malinawan ang kanyang pag-iisip.”
Acidre accused Duterte of portraying herself as untouchable and placing herself above mechanisms of accountability.
“It seems like the Vice President has always made it a point that she is above the law. It seems like the law should apply to everyone except to herself,” Acidre said.
The chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs urged Duterte to align her actions with her statements, emphasizing that public trust requires cooperation and transparency.
“Kung sinabi man ‘yan ng Pangalawang Pangulo, we welcome it in the spirit of Christmas, we look forward to it. Kung gugustuhin lang po ni VP Sara na sumagot sa impeachment, tungkulin po niya na sumagot. Sabi nga natin, public office is a public trust,” he pointed out.
“Hindi po depende sa amin kung kailangan naming sagutin ang mga katanungan ng bayan. Tungkulin po namin na sagutin ang aming mga pananagutan sa taong bayan,” he pointed out.
Ortega questioned Duterte’s sincerity, calling her impeachment remark a delaying tactic to avoid answering the public’s concerns.
“Tama po siya. Pero ang problema paano kung walang impeachment? Saan na naman po siya sasagot? Baka wala na naman. Siguro mas maganda po na gawa na lang, hindi po salita,” Ortega said.
Vice President Duterte is under fire for several controversies involving public funds and her leadership.
Two impeachment complaints have been filed against her, including allegations of misusing public funds and failing to defend the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) budget before Congress.
The House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability is probing Duterte’s alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds allocated to the OVP and the Department of Education during her tenure as Education secretary.
These funds were flagged for questionable disbursements and lack of proper documentation, but Duterte has repeatedly refused to address the allegations or respond to questions from lawmakers.
Adding to her woes, the NBI launched an investigation into Duterte’s threat to have President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez assassinated if she herself were to be killed.
Despite being subpoenaed twice, Duterte ignored the probe, forcing the NBI to resolve the case based solely on the available evidence.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Wrapping up the investigation, in aid of legislation, into the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds entrusted to Vice President Sara Duterte, the chairman of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability on Monday (9 December 2024) denounced what he described as the abuse of public trust hidden under the guise of secrecy.
Manila Third District Rep. Joel Chua delivered a sharp and damning summation, focusing on the central question that defined the months-long inquiry: “Saan napunta ang confidential funds?”
“Siguro po panahon na upang harapin natin ang katotohanan na hindi lahat ng mga nahahalal o nalalagay sa posisyon sa gobyerno ay pwedeng basta-bastang pagkatiwalaan,” Chua said in his opening statement during the eighth hearing of the panel, also known as the House Blue Ribbon Committee.
“Kailangan pa rin ng safeguards, pati sa ‘confidential funds.’ Sapagka’t hindi maiiwasan na may mga magtatangkang gamitin ang pagka-confidential nito upang itago ang impormasyon at pang-aabuso sa tiwala ng taumbayan,” he added.
Chua warned that the term “confidential” is being weaponized to obscure truth and evade accountability, a pattern revealed in the committee’s probe into the mishandling of confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) when Duterte was still its secretary.
“Para sa kaalaman ng lahat, ang ‘confidential’ funds ay hindi ‘discretionary’ allowance o funds ng isang ahensya. Hindi sya ‘secret funds,’” he pointed out.
The committee found that from late 2022 to the third quarter of 2023, the OVP spent P500 million and the DepEd disbursed P112.5 million in confidential funds. These expenditures, totaling P612.5 million, lacked transparency and accountability, with incomplete or vague documentation that evaded proper scrutiny.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – House leaders are leaving it to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to determine Vice President Sara Duterte’s criminal liability over alleged death threats against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
This comes as the House of Representatives tackles an impeachment complaint based on the same allegations.
Bataan First District Rep. Geraldine Roman underscored the separation of powers, stating that Congress will focus on the impeachment process while the DOJ handles potential criminal charges.
“That is a totally separate and independent process, kanya-kanya tayo ng trabaho. Basta as far as we are concerned, we have a mandate to process this impeachment complaint,” Roman said.
The chairperson of the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality stressed the importance of government agencies operating independently and transparently.
“We’re not the ones who are going to tell the Justice Department to do their work. But we should let our government agencies do their work freely, independently, with transparency, with honesty,” she added.
Assistant Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre explained the distinction between the impeachment process in Congress and the DOJ’s criminal investigation.
“Importante para sa mga tao na maunawaan ang pagkakaiba ng proseso ng DOJ at ‘yung ginagawa ho natin sa Kongreso,” said Acidre, who chairs the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.
He elaborated, “Sa DOJ po ito’y separate na proseso ng ehekutibo, involving the criminal liability ng Vice President. Iba po ito sa impeachment process sa Mababang Kapulungan, which is a politically legislative procedure.”
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Following the filing of two impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, House leaders emphasized their constitutional duty to address the matter.
“We have the constitutional duty, and we’re bound by that mandate to act on all impeachment complaints filed with the House,” stated House Assistant Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, who also chairs the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.
Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman, chair of the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality, expressed personal reservations about pursuing impeachment but acknowledged Congress’s obligation.
“From my personal point of view, I’m not inclined to push for an impeachment process kasi ito rin ang pananawagan sa amin ng Pangulo,” Roman said. “But from a purely constitutional point of view, bahagi po ito ng aming mandato sa Kongreso. Kung meron hong nag-file ng impeachment complaint, we have no choice but to process this complaint.”
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. previously advised congressional allies to drop impeachment plans against Duterte, saying it would not serve Filipinos and could distract Congress from urgent national concerns.
Despite this, civil society groups, religious leaders, and the Makabayan bloc filed separate impeachment complaints accusing Duterte of culpable violations of the Constitution, graft and corruption, bribery, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes.
Acidre described the complaints as a reflection of the public’s demand for accountability.
“Siguro nitong paghahain ng impeachment complaint ng mga civil society groups ay isa lamang pagpapatunay na ang taong-bayan mismo ay naghahanap ng accountability sa kanilang mga halal na pinuno, lalung-lalo na sa kasong ito ng Bise Presidente,” he noted.
Roman assured the public of transparency in the impeachment process.
“Rest assured na kung ano mang processing, deliberations, they will be transparent and they will follow to the small letter,” she said. “Lahat ng dapat, what we have to take in mind, for example, the questions of whether it is correct in form and in substance, at siyempre papakinggan natin lahat ng panig. Due process will be followed.”
Acidre added that the impeachment filings are consistent with the House’s efforts to uphold accountability.
“Nakita ninyo naman ho sa mga pagdinig ng Kongreso, naging prayoridad naman talaga natin ang paghahanap ng accountability,” he said.
The complaint must be referred to the plenary within 10 session days, after which the justice committee will determine if it meets the requirements of form and substance.
“This will be a careful balancing act on the part of the leadership and the House,” Acidre noted.
Despite potential challenges, Roman emphasized Congress’s commitment to fulfilling its constitutional duties.
“Batas lamang po ang paiiralin — pantay-pantay ang lahat,” she stressed.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – The Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives is intensifying its efforts to gather at least 130 signatures from their colleagues to push the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Senate for trial.
This initiative comes on the heels of a fellowship dinner hosted at Malacañang Palace by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. Attended by 200 congressmen, the event reaffirmed their support for the Chief Executive against “threats, both internal and external, that seek to undermine our independence, security, and democracy.”
Political analyst Ronald Llamas remarked, “Saan ba nanggagaling ang threats, di ba kay Vice President Sara Duterte?”
House Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” Velasco disclosed that his office has yet to transmit the two impeachment complaints to the Office of the Speaker, citing anticipation of additional complaints being filed next week.
“There are congressmen who spoke to me saying they are thinking about filing or endorsing a complaint, so we are still on hold. We’re waiting,” Velasco said.
In a joint statement, Party-list Representatives France Castro (ACT), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela), and Raoul Manuel (Kabataan) confirmed their initiative:
“We, the Makabayan bloc in Congress, have initiated efforts to gather the required one-third of signatures from House members to sign the Resolution of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte based on the citizens’ complaint signed by 72 individuals from various sectors led by BAYAN and Makabayan.”
They urged their colleagues to “act with integrity and political courage by supporting this impeachment resolution.”
The Makabayan bloc emphasized that the exposure of alleged misuse of confidential funds during budget deliberations necessitates accountability from the Vice President.
If the impeachment gains traction in the House, Llamas noted, the Senate will serve as the impeachment court to decide on either conviction or exoneration.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Seventy-five individuals from the national democratic movement filed a second impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday (04 Dec 2024), accusing her of betraying public trust by allegedly misusing P612.5 million in confidential funds.
In a press conference before submitting the complaint, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) chairman Teddy Casiño emphasized that “With public trust comes public accountability.”
“Nilustay (ni VP Duterte) ang P612.5 million confidential funds,” he said.
In their complaint, the group argued that VP Duterte betrayed public trust by “abusing her discretionary powers” over confidential funds, disregarding transparency and accountability, and neglecting her duties by refusing to acknowledge Congressional oversight during budget deliberations.
“The betrayal of public trust evident in respondent’s actions represents a fundamental breach of the covenant between public servant and citizen— a breach so severe that it can only be remedied by her removal from office through impeachment, with the penalty of permanent disqualification from holding public office,” the complaint stated.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Citing their constitutional mandate, two lawmakers on Tuesday (03 Dec 2024) said they have “no choice” but to act on the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte despite their apprehension over the timeline for its processing.
“If we start by January, tapos magbi-break ng bandang February at mag-resume, dahil election year, bandang Mayo na, kailan pa? But walang choice kundi gawin ang trabaho ng Kongreso,” Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman said during a media briefing.
However, she stressed that the House of Representatives has “no choice” but to work on the complaint as it is a part of their duties.
“From a purely Constitutional point-of-view, bahagi ito ng mandato ng Kongreso. Kung mayroong nag-file ng impeachment complaint, we have no choice but to process the entire complaint,” Roman added.
On Monday afternoon (2 December 2024), civil society groups, religious leaders, sectoral representatives, and families of victims of extrajudicial killings (EJKs) filed an impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte and this was endorsed by Akbayan Party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña
“It has to go through the entire process — from the filing to the referral to the Justice Committee, to the deliberations, the voting, and if approved, the referral to the Senate,” Roman clarified.
For his part, House Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog party list Rep. Jude Acidre echoed Roman’s remarks, saying legislators are “bound on the mandate to act on an impeachment complaint filed with the House”.
“The leadership has yet to give their definite guidance on the matter but nonetheless, I think most of us members of Congress, are one in saying that were are ready to undertake our Constitutionally bound duty to tackle the impeachment complaint,” Acidre quipped.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Echoing the late President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos’s storied rise to power, the presidency of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr. appears to have been written by destiny, despite Vice President Sara Duterte’s claim that she could have won the presidency in 2022 but chose to step aside.
“Then why didn’t she run if she had it in the bag? Dapat tumakbo siya [as president],” said House Assistant Majority Leader and Taguig City Second District Rep. Pammy Zamora during a press conference at the House of Representatives.
Zamora questioned the timing of Duterte’s statement, remarking, “I mean, 2025 na eh, ngayon mo pa sasabihin ‘yan? The presidency, kita naman nating lahat sa history, destiny ‘yan. Eh kung talagang para sa kanya ’yun, then dapat para sa kanya yun.”
She emphasized that the presidency is determined by destiny, history, and the will of the people, urging Duterte to focus on her current responsibilities instead of speculating on what could have been.
1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez also criticized Duterte’s remarks, suggesting they were an attempt to deflect from the issue of unresolved confidential funds.
“She’s answering the issue by bringing up politics and the presidency, but I think what we have to note here is that this issue goes way back—before the Good Government Committee and before people were talking about whether it’s the presidency or not,” Gutierrez said.
It is worth noting that the 1965 film Iginuhit ng Tadhana, which depicted the life of then-Senate President Ferdinand Marcos, faced brief suspension by the Board of Censors for Motion Pictures, reportedly on the orders of then-President Diosdado Macapagal.
This latest exchange reignites discussions on political destiny, accountability, and leadership in the Philippines.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo stated that there is no credible threat against Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio’s life.
“Sa ngayon po, ang PNP, walang information as to the credible threat against the vice president,” Fajardo said in a radio interview on Monday, December 2, 2024.
“Wala po tayong kopya nung sinasabi niyang documented threat,” she added.
This statement follows Duterte-Carpio’s controversial remarks threatening President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the First Lady, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, claiming she had ordered someone to kill them if she were to be assassinated.
Fajardo further noted that threats are “inherent” to the position of the Vice President.
“Since siya po ay ating bise presidente, tinatanggap po natin na ang threat ay inherent sa kanyang position, and we are ready to provide security to her and any other government officials if requested,” she said.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Despite the pronouncement of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr that impeaching Vice President Sara Duterte would only be a “waste of time,” some advocacy groups on Monday afternoon (2 December 2024) filed an impeachment complaint against the second highest official of the land.
The impeachment complaint was endorsed by Akbayan Party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña.
To recall, VP Duterte had threatened that the President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez would be killed if she gets assassinated.
The complaint was filed in the office of Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” S. Velasco at the House of Representatives by civil society organizations, religious leaders, sectoral representatives, and families of victims of extrajudicial killings.
The complainants were Teresita Quintos Deles, Fr. Flaviano Villanueva, Fr. Robert Reyes, Randy Delos Santos (uncle of Tokhang victim Kian Delos Santos), Francis Aquino Dee, Leah Navarro, Sylvia Estrada Claudio, Alicia Murphy, Sr. Mary Grace De Guzman, and former Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, among others.
They were accompanied by Mamamayang Liberal (ML) partylist first nominee and former senator Leila De Lima, who acted as the complainants’ spokesperson.
Cendaña said the grounds for the impeachment complaint include betrayal of public trust, culpable violations of the Constitution, and other high crimes.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday (29 Nov 2024) expressed his opposition to calls for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, saying such a move would not benefit the Filipino people.
“This is not important. This does not make any difference to even one single Filipino life. So, why waste time on this?” Marcos stated.
The President emphasized that pursuing an impeachment would only hinder the legislative process. “What will happen if somebody files an impeachment? It will tie down the House, it will tie down the Senate. It will just take up all our time and for what? For nothing, for nothing. None of this will help improve a single Filipino life. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a storm in a teacup,” he added.
Marcos also addressed a text message reportedly sent by him, urging lawmakers to refrain from filing an impeachment complaint against Duterte-Carpio.
“In the larger scheme of things, Sara is unimportant. So please do not file impeachment complaints,” the message read.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Senior leaders of the House of Representatives reiterated on Friday (29 Nov 2024) that the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte is not on the chamber’s agenda.
Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker David “Jay-Jay” Suarez, and House Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe emphasized this following discussions about the possible filing of an ouster complaint against Duterte.
“As we have repeatedly pointed out in media interviews, impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte are not on our agenda,” the three House leaders said in a joint statement.
Gonzales, Suarez, and Dalipe noted that while the House is committed “to upholding transparency and accountability, the primary focus of the House committees concerned is on uncovering the truth behind the use of confidential funds and addressing any alleged irregularities linked to questionable businesses.”
“Our institution is duty-bound to serve as a check and balance while safeguarding public trust. The Filipino people deserve answers regarding these serious matters, and we aim to fulfill this responsibility without political distractions or divisiveness,” they added.
“Let us work together to ensure that governance remains focused on what truly matters—delivering results and improving the lives of our people—while fulfilling all constitutional mandates with integrity and impartiality,” they said.
Under the Constitution, any citizen may file an impeachment complaint against any impeachable official. However, the petition must be endorsed by at least one House member for it to be acted upon.
“However, we also recognize that the House of Representatives has a constitutional duty to act on impeachment complaints filed by ordinary citizens against impeachable officials,” they said.
“This is not just the responsibility of the institution, but also the individual duty of each congressman to uphold the Constitution. Should an impeachment complaint be properly filed in accordance with the rules, the House is obligated to deliberate on it fairly and transparently, ensuring that the process adheres to the highest standards of justice,” they stressed.
The House rules on impeachment prescribe the process and timelines for considering and acting on an impeachment complaint.
An impeachment petition signed by at least one-third of all House members goes directly to the Senate for trial.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — A young leader of the House of Representatives on Friday (29 Nov 2024) expressed strong disappointment over Vice President Sara Duterte’s continued refusal to honor the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) lawful summon, despite having no more valid excuse to do so.
Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun pointed out that the House of Representatives had even canceled a scheduled hearing to ensure there were no conflicts with the NBI investigation.
This courtesy was extended to allow the Vice President to focus on addressing the legal matter, yet she still failed to comply.
“Yung mayaman at makapangyarihan, puwede palang hindi magpakita sa NBI kapag pinatawag. Bakit yung mahihirap, hindi puwede? Bakit ang ordinaryong mamamayan ay kailangang sundin ang batas, pero ang makapangyarihan ay hindi?” Khonghun asked.
He added that such actions set a dangerous precedent, sending the message that public officials can act above the law while ordinary citizens are expected to comply.
“Kapag ang mataas na opisyal mismo ang hindi sumusunod sa batas, sinisira nito ang tiwala ng mga tao sa ating mga institusyon. Ang tanong ng taumbayan: Kung kayo nga hindi sumusunod, paano niyo aasahang sumunod kami?” Khonghun asked.
Khonghun also emphasized the responsibility of public officials to serve as role models for accountability and integrity.
“Ang serbisyo publiko ay hindi lang pribilehiyo kundi responsibilidad. Dapat tayong maging ehemplo ng pagiging responsable at tapat, lalo na sa harap ng ating mga kababayan. Kapag ang lider mismo ang umiiwas sa pananagutan, sinisira nito ang dangal ng gobyerno,” he said.
He further challenged the Vice President to fulfill her legal and moral obligations, stating: “Ang hindi pagpapakita sa NBI ay malinaw na kawalan ng respeto sa ating batas. Walang sinuman ang higit sa batas, kahit pa ang Pangalawang Pangulo. Ang pagsunod sa batas ay responsibilidad hindi lamang ng mga mamamayan kundi maging mga lingkod-bayan.”
He also urged the Filipino people to reflect on the importance of upholding the rule of law, regardless of social or political status.
“Ang batas ay para sa lahat. Dapat walang kinikilingan, walang pinoprotektahan. Kapag hinayaan natin ang ganitong klaseng kawalan ng respeto sa batas, sinisira natin ang pundasyon ng ating demokrasya,” he stressed.
Khonghun concluded with a plea to all public officials: “Ang mga nasa posisyon ay dapat maging huwaran, hindi sa pagtakas sa pananagutan kundi sa pagpapakita ng integridad. Ipakita natin na sa Bagong Pilipinas, ang lahat ay pantay-pantay sa harap ng batas.”
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – To ensure Vice President Sara Duterte can respond to a subpoena issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability has postponed its hearing originally scheduled for Friday, November 29, 2024.
Manila Third District Representative Joel Chua, chairperson of the committee probing alleged misuse of the Vice President’s confidential funds, announced the decision during a press briefing on Thursday, November 28.
“Many House members raised concerns about this matter, which led us to decide earlier to postpone the hearing. This allows the NBI investigation to proceed without any interference or excuse,” Chua said.
The subpoena requires Duterte to address allegations that she issued death threats against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Taguig 2nd District Representative Pammy Zamora had earlier called for the postponement, urging the committee to allow Duterte to focus on the NBI probe.
“These are serious allegations that demand Vice President Duterte’s full attention and cooperation,” Zamora emphasized.
The House investigation into the alleged misuse of confidential funds is expected to resume after the NBI concludes its inquiry.
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Ni Junex Doronio
MANILA — Nagsama-sama ang 45 matataas na opisyal sa Eastern Visayas sa pagkondena kay Vice President Sara Duterte kaugnay ng walang ingat at mapaghating aksiyon nito laban kina Pangulong Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. at Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
Pinangunahan nina Leyte Rep. Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon, Biliran Rep. Gerardo “Gerryboy” J. Espina Jr., at Samar Reps. Reynolds Michael Tan at Stephen James Tan, ang 45 opisyal sa paglalabas ng Joint Manifesto of Indignation kung saan kanilang sinabi na ang mga aksiyon ni Duterte ay insulto sa mga Waray at kanilang mga lider.
Ang pahayag, na nilagdaan ng mga opisyal ng probinsya, lungsod, at munisipyo sa Eastern Visayas, ay nagsimula sa pagsabing, “We, the undersigned local government leaders of Eastern Visayas, express our profound indignation at the malicious, baseless and reckless accusations made by Vice President Sara Duterte against Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.”
Tinuligsa ni Duterte si Speaker Romualdez, isang kilalang lider ng mga Waray at pinsan ni Pangulong Marcos, kaugnay ng imbestigasyon ng Kamara sa umano’y maling paggastos sa P612.5 milyong confidential fund ng Office of the Vice President (OVP) at Department of Education (DepEd).
Ayon sa manifesto, ang hindi makatwirang pag-atake ay isang paghamak hindi lamang sa mga lider kundi maging sa dangal at dignidad ng mga Waray— na ang ugali ng pagiging matatag, nagsusumikap, at may karangalan ay ipinakikita ni Speaker Romualdez.
Kinilala rin ng mga lider si Speaker Romualdez na mayroong mahabang kasaysayan ng pagseserbisyo sa publiko at nakapaghatid ng kaginhawahan sa buhay ng mga Pilipino at ng pag-unlad sa bulnerableng sektor.
Kinondena rin ng mga lider si Duterte sa kawalang respeto nito hindi lamang kay Speaker Romualdez kundi maging kay Pangulong Marcos, na mayroon ding dugong Waray.
“Vice President Duterte’s unfounded allegations also insult the Romualdez legacy, which extends to President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., who shares Waray blood through his mother, former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos,” sabi sa pahayag.
“Her reckless tirades strike at the very heart of a region that has overcome countless challenges through hard work, solidarity and trust in capable leadership,” sabi pa rito.
Kinilala rin ng mga lider ang mga nagawa nina Speaker Romualdez at Pangulong Marcos na nakapagdala ng makahulugang pagbabago sa bansa.
Ang mga naging aksiyon umano ni Duterte ay lumagpas sa personal na pag-atake.
“Her irresponsible statements not only destabilize the unity of the administration but also erode the trust of the Filipino people at a time when cooperation and stability are paramount,” nakasaad sa manifesto.
Dumipensa ang lahat ng pitong alkalde sa unang distrito ng Leyte para kay Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, at tahasang tinuligsa ang walang basehan at malisyosong akusasyon ni Vice President Sara Duterte.
Sa isang manifesto, inilahad ng mga alkalde ng Palo, Alangalang, San Miguel, Tanauan, Sta. Fe, Tolosa, at Babatngon na ang mga paratang ni Duterte ay hindi lamang pag-atake kay Speaker Romualdez kundi sa buong unang distrito ng Leyte.
“We, the undersigned mayors of the First District of Leyte, stand in staunch defense of Leyte First District Representative and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, a leader whose integrity and dedication to public service have been consistently proven throughout his exemplary political career,” ayon sa manifesto.
“Representing the First District of Leyte, Speaker Romualdez has served his constituents with honor and distinction, unblemished by allegations of corruption or violence, and always placing the welfare of the people above personal interest,” sabi pa rito.
Lumagda sa manifesto sina Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, pangulo ng Leyte Chapter of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines, Mayors Lovell Anne Yu-Castro ng Alangalang, Norman Sabdao ng San Miguel, Gina Merilo ng Tanauan, Amparo Monteza ng Sta. Fe, Erwin Ocana ng Tolosa, at Eleonor Lugnasin ng Babatngon.
“These accusations are a direct insult to the very citizens whose trust and mandate he has honorably upheld,” sabi pa sa manifesto.
Binigyang diin sa manifesto ang mga napagtagumpayan ni Romualdez kasama na ang kanyang liderato sa pagpapasa ng mga mahahalang lehislasyon at epektibong paglalaan ng resources para sa kanyang mga nasasakupan at para sa bayan.
“Speaker Romualdez’s record speaks louder than these reckless accusations. Under his leadership, critical legislation has been passed, resources have been effectively mobilized, and the welfare of Filipinos has been prioritized,” sabi ng mga alkalde.
Pinuri rin nila ang Speaker sa kanyang pagsusulong sa paglilingkod sa bayan, at kinilala ang kanyang trabaho na kilala sa “diligence, transparency, and unwavering dedication to the greater good of the nation.”
Binatikos din ng mga alkalde ang mga pahayag ni Vice President Duterte laban kay Pangulong Marcos Jr., na anila’y nakakalala lang sa sitwasyon at banta sa pagkakaisa at katatagan ng bansa.
“We likewise categorically reject the statements made against President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. These inflammatory remarks and divisive rhetoric not only undermine the unity we are striving to achieve as a nation but also betray the constitutional duty and trust bestowed upon all public officials,” giit nila
Babala pa ng mga alkalde, “such conduct is unbecoming of an elected leader and is detrimental to the stability and progress of our country.”
Pinayuhan din ng mga alkalde si Vice President Duterte na iwaksi ang pagkakawatak-watak at tuparin na lang ang kanyang atas na isulong ang pagkakaisa at pananagutan.
“To Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, we remind you of your sworn duty to uphold unity and serve with accountability. We urge you to abandon this path of division and hostility, for it is a betrayal of the trust the Filipino people have placed in you,” pahayag pa nila.
Mula sa Biliran, ang mga lumagda ay sina Board Member Roselyn Espina Parabos at Mayors Rhodessa Revita (Caibiran), Humphrey Olimba (Culaba), Gemma Adobo (Cabucgayan), Myra Cabrales (Biliran), at Richard Jaguros (Almeria).
Gayundin sina Calubian Mayor Marciano Battancela, Jr. at Villaba Mayor Lito Veloso na mula naman sa Leyte.
Para naman sa Northern Samar lumagda sina Mayors Maria Ana Abalon (San Roque), Leo Jarito (Silvino Lobos), Felipe Sosing (Pambujan), Florence Batula (Palapag), Maria Luisa Menzon, (Lapinig), at Raquel Capoquian (Gamay).
Mula sa Samar, lumagda naman sina Mayors Raymund Uy (Calbayog City), Marinell Apolonio (Sto. Niño), Danny Tan (Tarangnan), Sed Tan (Pagsanghan), Leo De Guia (San Jorge), Amy Cano (Almagro), Aran Boller (Matuginao), Vicente Limpiado (Tagapul-An), Warren Aguilar (Gandara), Felix Ranganoron (Sta. Margarita), Luz Ponferrada (Basey), Myrna Tan (Zumarraga), Red Nacario (Calbiga), Ferdinand Gaviola (San Sebastian), Eunice Babalcon (Paranas), Renato Cabael (Motiong), Philip Astorga (Daram), Julie Cereno (Jiabong), Clarito Rosal (Hinabangan) at Percival Ortillo Jr. (Marabut).
Sinabi rin sa pahayag na ang mga sinabi ni Duterte ay malisyoso at walang basehan at isa umanong direktang pag-atake sa mga Waray na matagal nang haligi ng pagkakaisa at pag-unlad ng bansa.
“Eastern Visayas will not stand idly by as its leaders and its people are disrespected,” saad ng pahayag.
Hinamon din sa pahayag si Duterte na baguhin ang mga prayoridad nito.
“We call on Vice President Duterte to cease these baseless accusations and instead focus on the responsibilities entrusted to her by the Filipino people,” sabi sa manifesto kung saan iginiit din na walang puwang ang mga aksyon ni Duterte sa isang bansa na nagsusumikap para sa pagkakaisa at pag-unlad.
Bilang isang kaalyado ng administrasyon, si Speaker Romualdez ay isang instrumento rin umano sa pagsulong ng legislative agenda ni Pangulong Marcos. Kinilala rin nila ito sa kanyang walang bahid na rekord at pangako sa serbisyo publiko na nagpapakita umano ng pagiging tapat, may pananagutan, at tunay na malasakit sa mga Pilipino.
“Eastern Visayas stands united behind Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. Their leadership is a source of pride for the Waray people and a symbol of hope for the entire nation.”
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The government is considering filing charges against Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio for alleged death threats against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres stated that the government may pursue sedition charges “or even graver offenses” in connection with the threats.
According to Andres, the “premeditated plot,” allegedly admitted by Duterte, “will now face legal consequences.”
“Based on our initial assessment, sedition is a possibility. We are also considering other serious criminal offenses beyond sedition. Grave threats and sedition are both under review,” Andres explained.
He mentioned that authorities are investigating potential conspiracies and have enlisted various agencies to trace the alleged assassins supposedly hired by the Vice President.
Earlier, President Marcos stated he would not allow this incident to go unchallenged.
“‘Yang ganyang pagtatangka ay hindi dapat pinapalampas. ‘Yan ay aking papalagan. As a democratic country, we need to uphold the rule of law,” the President emphasized.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — A former official of the Department of Education (DepEd) and now an executive in the Office of the Vice President (OVP) has practically admitted distributing cash to selected education officials, allegedly under the direct instruction of Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a revealing exchange during the hearing of the House Blue Ribbon Committee Monday night (25 November 2025), House Assistant Majority Leader Jude Acidre questioned former DepEd Special Disbursing Officer Eduard Fajarda about the distribution of cash envelopes to DepEd officials where the latter admitted to carrying out the instructions, further implicating the vice president in the controversy.
“Actually po, I was instructed by VP Sara,” Fajarda said when asked why he solicited personal bank account details from DepEd officials.
He clarified that the instructions came directly from Duterte, not through intermediaries, and that the funds were handed to him by Duterte herself.
The inquiry revealed that the envelopes were reportedly distributed to DepEd superintendents, though not all received them.
“May napadalan po pero hindi siya lahat,” Fajarda said, explaining that recipients were selected based on bank account details.
“During po kasi sa pag-iikot ni VP Sara, nakita po niya dun yung superintendent gumagastos ng sarili nilang pera sa office field work nila,” he added.
However, Acidre confronted Fajarda with screenshots and affidavits suggesting that a broader group of DepEd officials, particularly in Region 7, had been contacted.
“Kung titignan mo sa screenshot, yung lahat po ng superintendent sa Region 7 ay inyo pong kinontak at hiningan. Ibig sabihin silang lahat po nabigyan?” Acidre asked.
Fajarda responded, “Actually, hindi ko kilala lahat ng superintendent. Basta ang alam ko lang po hindi po lahat.”
The money’s origin became a focal point of the questioning. When asked where the funds came from, Fajarda admitted, “Binibigay ‘po yun sa akin ni VP Sara,” further confirming that the vice president has personal knowledge of the cash distribution.
This admission follows similar revelations from four other former DepEd officials – former Undersecretary Gloria Mercado, Chief Accountant Rhunna Catalan, former Bids and Awards Committee Chairperson Resty Osias and former Undersecretary and Vice President spokesperson Michael Poa – who also admitted to receiving envelopes from Duterte.
Acidre underscored this pattern during the hearing, noting the consistent testimonies from multiple officials about the distribution of envelopes.
The hearing also highlighted irregularities in the distribution process. Fajarda admitted that cash was sent directly to the personal accounts of certain DepEd officials, bypassing official DepEd channels.
Acidre questioned the implications of this practice, asking, “Pag nagpapadala kayo ng pera, personal account ang ginagamit or official account ng DepEd?”
Fajarda confirmed, “Account number po nila.”
Fajarda defended the selective distribution of funds, citing the Vice President’s observation that some superintendents were using their personal money for office-related expenses.
However, Acidre pointed out the lack of consistency in the process and raised concerns about the potential misuse of funds.
In light of the admissions, Acidre concluded that further investigations would likely yield similar responses from DepEd superintendents and regional directors.
“Itong pong lahat ng pagkakataon, pag naging panauhin po namin ang mga superintendents at regional directors, we would expect that would be the response – na hindi po lahat at hindi po regular?” Acidre asked.
“Yes, Your Honor,” Fajarda replied, acknowledging the irregular and selective nature of the cash distributions.
The admission of direct involvement by Duterte in the distribution of funds through personal accounts raises serious questions about transparency, accountability and potential misuse of public resources.
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