Philippine House Orders Investigation into Vice President Sara Duterte

On March 25, 2026, a Philippine congressional panel, led by Gerville Luistro, the chair of the House of Representatives’ justice committee, ordered the Office of the Ombudsman to submit the statements of assets and liabilities of Vice President Sara Duterte. This action is part of an investigation into impeachment complaints against her, which include allegations of threatening to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and misusing public funds. The subpoena will cover records from 2007 to 2013 and from 2016 to 2025. Luistro emphasized that the proceedings are investigative, focusing on whether there is sufficient basis to proceed to a Senate trial.

BloombergThe Straits TimesVP Duterte absence disrespect — De Lima

The impeachment complaints against Sara Duterte were deemed "sufficient in substance" earlier in March 2026. This development comes amid a political feud between Duterte and President Marcos, who is required to step down in 2028 after a single six-year term. Duterte has publicly declared her intention to run for the presidency in the next election, intensifying the political stakes surrounding the impeachment process.

BloombergThe Straits TimesVP Duterte absence disrespect — De Lima

Sara Duterte's absence from the congressional hearing has drawn criticism from various lawmakers, notably Representative Leila de Lima. De Lima characterized Duterte's no-show as a sign of disrespect towards the constitutional process, arguing that it undermines the dignity of the proceedings. She stated that respect for the institution conducting the inquiry is essential, regardless of personal agreement with the process. De Lima criticized Duterte's reliance on public statements and a vague letter from her counsel instead of formally addressing the committee.

VP Duterte absence disrespect — De Lima

The committee's discussions included differing opinions on the role of legal counsel during the impeachment inquiry. Some representatives, like Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, argued for a broader role for counsel, suggesting that Duterte need not appear in person. However, others, including Domogan and Manila Rep. Joel Chua, contended that the respondent or her witnesses must be present to provide evidence, as lawyers cannot substitute for them in answering clarificatory questions. This debate highlighted the procedural complexities of the impeachment process, which remains in the preliminary investigation stage rather than a full trial.

VP Duterte absence disrespect — De Lima

Gerville Luistro reiterated the investigative nature of the proceedings, stating, “Let us remember that what we are conducting here is merely investigative in nature, where the question is not guilt, but whether there is sufficient basis to proceed to trial in the Senate.” Meanwhile, de Lima's remarks underscored the expectation of respect for the constitutional process, emphasizing that the absence of the Vice President was a significant oversight.

VP Duterte absence disrespect — De Lima

While the impeachment complaints have been deemed sufficient to warrant investigation, the specific details of the allegations and the extent of the evidence remain unclear. There is also a lack of clarity regarding the implications of Duterte's absence from the hearings and how it may affect the proceedings moving forward.

Bloomberg

• “Let us remember that what we are conducting here is merely investigative in nature, where the question is not guilt, but whether there is sufficient basis to proceed to trial in the Senate,” — Gerville Luistro, Chair of the House Justice Committee

The Straits Times

• “So this is disrespect, another manifestation of her affront to the constitutional process,” — Leila de Lima, Representative

VP Duterte absence disrespect — De Lima