MANILA, Philippines — Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte has condemned the renewed efforts to impeach his sister, Vice President Sara Duterte, calling the initiative “politically motivated” and a “baseless attack” on her leadership.
In a strongly worded statement released on Thursday, Rep. Duterte accused certain lawmakers — specifically naming Rep. Janette Garin — of fast-tracking signature gathering to push a fourth impeachment complaint forward in the House of Representatives.
“This is nothing more than a clear act of political persecution,” Duterte said. “This administration is treading on dangerous ground.”
He warned that the push for impeachment could further stir public unrest, referencing the recent Iglesia Ni Cristo rally that reportedly drew over a million attendees. According to him, such a turnout signals growing frustration among the public — a sentiment that could intensify if the administration ignores it.
“If they think they can push this sham impeachment without consequence, they are gravely mistaken,” Duterte added.
Beyond defending his sister, the Davao congressman framed the impeachment push as a broader assault on democracy. He said the issue was no longer just about Vice President Duterte, but about respecting the voice of the people and upholding democratic values.
“The growing discontent and frustration across the country will not be contained for long,” he warned.
Despite these objections, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco confirmed Wednesday that enough signatures have been collected in support of the latest impeachment complaint against the vice president — the fourth attempt so far.
The push comes amid a divided public opinion. A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted in December 2024 found that 41% of Filipinos support the impeachment of Vice President Duterte, while 19% remain undecided.
Vice President Sara Duterte has yet to issue a formal response to the latest developments. However, her allies, including her brother, are calling on the administration to reconsider its course and heed the voice of the public.
