MANILA – The House justice panel will convene on Wednesday for what may be its final hearing on the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, centering on her controversial remarks allegedly threatening President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Chaired by Batangas Rep. Gerville “Jinky Bitrics” Luistro, the committee is tasked with determining whether there is probable cause to move forward with the case, including evaluating two remaining complaints.
At the heart of the hearing is Duterte’s 2024 statement in which she reportedly mentioned plans to have the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and then-Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez killed under certain circumstances.
The National Bureau of Investigation, led by Director Melvin Matibag, is expected to present its findings on whether the remarks constitute a legitimate threat under Philippine law.
The statement, delivered during a November 2024 press conference, has been cited by complainants as direct and recorded evidence, as it was made publicly and documented on video.
For several lawmakers, the issue carries significant weight. Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. earlier pointed out that such remarks could fall under “high crimes,” emphasizing that threats against the country’s top leader are a serious matter.
La Union Rep. Francisco Paolo Ortega V echoed this view, saying the controversy raises deeper concerns about accountability and the standards expected of public officials.
Committee members have also underscored that the allegation is backed by Duterte’s own words, which they described as having clear proof.
Luistro, however, maintained that the panel’s duty is limited to determining the existence of sufficient evidence, not ruling on guilt.
The NBI’s testimony is seen as key in assessing the legal implications of Duterte’s statements.
While Duterte has since clarified that her remarks were conditional and linked to her personal security concerns, lawmakers insist that the full context must be scrutinized.
Beyond the alleged threat, the complaints also include accusations involving the alleged misuse of PHP612.5 million in confidential funds and claims of unexplained wealth.
These issues are cited as possible grounds for impeachment, including betrayal of public trust, corruption, and constitutional violations.
The committee is expected to decide whether to elevate the complaints to the Senate for trial after reviewing all submitted evidence.
It will also rule on whether to open documents from the Bureau of Internal Revenue containing the tax records of Duterte and her spouse, Manases Carpio.
ia/xf
