MANILA, Philippines (AP) – Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte addressed the media on Friday, discussing her preparations for an impending impeachment trial following her recent impeachment by the House of Representatives. This decision, taken on Wednesday, was based on a series of allegations, including the serious charge of masterminding a plot to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assassinated, a claim she vehemently denied. Duterte, who was elected alongside Marcos as his running mate in the 2022 elections, indicated a significant rift has developed between them since their victory.
During the news conference, Duterte highlighted the increasing economic hardships faced by the Filipino populace, asserting that their living conditions have deteriorated due to soaring living costs. She lamented the situation by saying, “God save the Philippines,” and encouraged her supporters to express their opinions through social media rather than engaging in street protests, in an effort to minimize disruption to their daily lives.
The potential consequences of a conviction for Duterte could be severe, including a ban on holding office, which would mark a significant setback for one of the Philippines' most influential political families, known for their recent alignment with China. The impeachment complaint against Duterte cites several issues, including threats made against Marcos, alleged irregularities in the use of government funds, and her failure to adequately respond to Chinese aggression in the contentious South China Sea. The Senate is scheduled to take up the impeachment case when it reconvenes in June.
In contrast to Duterte's perceived ties to China, President Marcos has sought to strengthen defense relations with the United States, the Philippines’ longstanding ally, as the nation faces escalated Chinese assertiveness in the disputed waters. Duterte's father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, had fostered relationships with both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, while also threatening to terminate U.S. military engagements during his presidency. The backdrop of these relations adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing impeachment proceedings.
Political expert Jean Franco from the University of the Philippines noted that the impeachment case has significant implications for both the United States and China, stating that if Duterte were to be convicted, China would lose a perceived ally. Meanwhile, the U.S. could benefit from a strengthening alliance with Manila, which had been scrutinized under the former administration.
When questioned about the possibility of resignation to circumvent a conviction that could prevent her from running for president in the 2028 elections, Duterte did not provide a clear answer. “We’re still too far from those matters,” she stated, informing the press that a substantial group of lawyers has joined her defense team for the impeachment trial. Despite noting a decline in her popularity ratings in independent surveys, she affirmed her openness to a presidential bid in 2028, though she emphasized the necessity to evaluate her chances before making any decisions. “We’re seriously considering that, but it’s difficult to decide without the numbers,” she said, leaving her political future uncertain.
As the political climate continues to evolve, the unfolding impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is poised to capture national and international attention, reflecting broader geopolitical dynamics and the critical state of affairs in the Philippines.
