Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte appeared at the Senate on Tuesday as her impeachment trial entered its second day, facing allegations that she threatened the lives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the first lady, and a former House Speaker. The proceedings, which could influence the 2028 presidential race, center on whether the Vice President’s public remarks constitute a constitutional violation. A conviction requires at least 16 votes from the 24-member Senate.
Before meeting with her legal team, Duterte addressed reporters while wearing a green polo shirt. She declared herself “bloodied but unbowed” in response to the ongoing legal challenge. While she attended the initial session, she did not remain for the proceedings, opting instead to be represented by her counsel.
Evidence presented by the prosecution
Prosecutor Lorenz Defensor argued that Duterte’s remarks exceeded ordinary criminal conduct and constituted a breach of the Constitution. To support these claims, the prosecution called an official from the National Bureau of Investigation to authenticate video footage of the Vice President.
One video clip from October 2024 featured Duterte stating she wanted to behead the President. A second clip from a November 2024 press conference showed the Vice President claiming she had instructed an assassin to kill President Marcos, the first lady, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez if she were to be killed first. In the footage, Duterte stated, “No joke, no joke,” and added, “do not stop until you kill them.”
Did You Know? The impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte includes multiple allegations beyond the reported threats, specifically accusing her of corruption, bribery, the misuse of public funds, and the amassing of unexplained wealth.
Political context and defense arguments
The impeachment trial highlights the collapse of a political alliance that won the 2022 election on a joint ticket. President Marcos and Vice President Duterte represent two of the most influential political families in the Philippines, but they have since engaged in a public feud.
The defense team has characterized the impeachment effort as politically motivated, arguing that the proceedings attempt to overturn the mandate of a leader elected by more than 32 million Filipinos. Duterte has consistently denied any wrongdoing regarding the allegations presented in the complaint.
Expert Insight: The stakes of this trial extend well beyond the current impeachment charges. Because the Vice President is a constitutional successor to the President, the Senate’s final determination will likely serve as a defining factor for the political landscape leading into the 2028 presidential election.
What happens next?
The Senate must now determine if the evidence presented by the prosecution meets the threshold for conviction. With 24 senators currently serving, a minimum of 16 votes is required to remove the Vice President from office. The trial will continue as the defense prepares to address the prosecution’s evidence and the broader claims of corruption and constitutional violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary allegation regarding the Vice President’s threats?
Prosecutors allege that Duterte made public statements instructing an assassin to kill President Marcos, the first lady, and a former House Speaker if she were harmed.
How has the Vice President responded to the impeachment trial?
Duterte has denied any wrongdoing, described the impeachment as politically motivated, and stated she remains “bloodied but unbowed” by the proceedings.
What is required to convict the Vice President?
A conviction requires a vote from at least 16 of the 24 members of the Philippine Senate.
How will the outcome of this trial affect the upcoming presidential election cycle?
