MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte may soon face an impeachment trial in the Senate after lawmakers backing the complaint claimed they already have enough votes in the House of Representatives.
Tingog Rep. Jude Acidre disclosed that around 47 members of the Party-list Coalition Foundation Inc. are supporting the impeachment case. Together with allies from the National Unity Party and Lakas-CMD, supporters estimate their numbers have reached at least 137 lawmakers.
The Constitution requires at least 106 affirmative votes from House members to elevate impeachment complaints to the Senate.
Acidre said the evidence presented during deliberations strengthened the position of lawmakers favoring impeachment.
Meanwhile, other House leaders believe the final count could rise further. Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon earlier said support may already be nearing 200 votes. Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong separately estimated around 180 lawmakers are prepared to endorse the complaint.
According to Puno, at least 30 lawmakers from the NUP are expected to vote in favor of the impeachment move, while Adiong said more than 60 lawmakers from Lakas-CMD have also signified support.
Duterte was previously impeached by 215 lawmakers last year after the House expedited the filing of impeachment articles. However, the Supreme Court later struck down the proceedings due to procedural issues and constitutional restrictions on repeated impeachment actions within a year.
Backers of the current complaint said they are targeting a larger show of support during the formal vote next week.
ia/xf
