MANILA, Philippines — On Friday, Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte announced that her legal team is gearing up for a battle regarding her forthcoming impeachment trial, although she did not clarify whether she might consider resigning to evade a potential conviction that could stop her from seeking the presidency in the future.
Duterte’s comments came after the House of Representatives moved to impeach her on Wednesday, citing multiple criminal allegations, including a supposed plot to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which she has consistently denied. Despite having been electoral allies in the 2022 elections, tensions have reportedly escalated between them since then.
During her news conference, Duterte highlighted the economic struggles many Filipinos are facing and lamented that their quality of life has deteriorated due to rising living costs. She urged her supporters to use social media to voice their opinions rather than resorting to street protests, which she believes would further complicate their everyday lives. She expressed a sentiment of despair, stating, “God save the Philippines.”
A possible conviction is seen as a significant hindrance for one of the nation’s most influential political families, which has been viewed as increasingly leaning towards China. The impeachment complaint accuses Duterte of making threats against President Marcos, mismanaging office funds, and not addressing Chinese assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea. The Senate is set to deliberate on the impeachment case when it reconvenes in June.
In response to China’s growing assertiveness in the region, President Marcos has strengthened defense collaborations with the United States, which remains the Philippines’ long-standing treaty ally. Duterte’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, fostered a different approach by building close relationships with leaders from China and Russia while suggesting a reduction in U.S. military presence in the country.
The unfolding impeachment situation holds significant implications for both the United States and China, as the geopolitical rivalry plays out in the region. According to political expert Jean Franco from the University of the Philippines, a conviction of Duterte could mean a loss for China in terms of influence, while an acquittal may reinstate the U.S.’ position that was questioned during her father’s administration.
When asked about the possibility of resigning to avoid potential disqualification from the 2028 presidential race, Duterte refrained from providing a direct answer. She mentioned, “We’re still too far from those matters,” highlighting the number of attorneys willing to support her during the impeachment.
Duterte acknowledged her interest in running for president in 2028 but emphasized the need for careful evaluation of her chances, especially as recent surveys indicate a decline in her popularity. Nevertheless, she is still considered a strong candidate for the future. “We’re seriously considering that but it’s difficult to decide without the numbers,” she concluded.
