Philippine Vice-President Duterte prepared for impeachment, says father welcome to join defence team

MANILA – Philippines Vice-President Sara Duterte said on Feb 7 she had been preparing since 2024 for impeachment and would welcome on her defence team her firebrand father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, if he is interested to join.   

She said she had not read a complaint against her that is endorsed by a majority of Lower House members, but her lawyers are gearing up for a trial in the Senate. The Senate’s president has said that could take place in June. 

Asked during a press conference if her resignation is an option, she added: “We’re not there yet. Those things are still too far off.”

Ms Duterte’s remarks were her first since the

Lower House impeached her on Feb 5

, charging her with culpable violation of the Constitution, graft and corruption, other high crimes and betrayal of public trust. She has denied wrongdoing. 

It stemmed from allegations she misused public funds while serving as vice-president and education minister, amassed unexplained wealth, and threatened the lives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the first lady and the Lower House Speaker. 

On Feb 7, she again reiterated that she had made no assassination threat.  

She said her 79-year-old father is welcome to join her defence team “if he wants to”, adding that he may not lead them given his age. Mr Duterte is a former city mayor and prosecutor who was the nation’s president from 2016 to 2022.

She has been embroiled in a long-running row with former ally Marcos and has previously dismissed moves against her as politically motivated.

For her to be convicted and removed from her post, the support of two-thirds of the senators at the trial is required. She has some key allies in the Senate, as does Mr Marcos.

Ms Duterte said she could not say if she would secure enough votes for an acquittal.       

“The only thing I can say at this point is God save the Philippines,” she added before taking questions from journalists. REUTERS