MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio brushed off claims that more than 200 lawmakers in the House of Representatives are prepared to support her impeachment, saying some individuals are merely profiting politically from her name as impeachment proceedings continue to gain momentum.
Speaking in an interview from The Hague, Netherlands, Duterte-Carpio downplayed reports of growing congressional backing for her impeachment, dismissing the claims as politically motivated.
“Madami ang pumipera gamit ang pangalan ko,” Duterte-Carpio said.
Her remarks came after Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon claimed that around 215 House members were supporting impeachment efforts against the vice president.
“From consultations, we are now at around 215 House members supporting the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte,” Ridon said.
The House justice committee earlier found probable cause in two impeachment complaints accusing Duterte-Carpio of allegedly misusing confidential and public funds and issuing threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In late April, the panel unanimously approved a committee report allowing the complaints to move forward. The complaints are expected to be consolidated before being elevated to the House plenary for voting.
Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro, chairperson of the House justice committee, also denied allegations that members of the panel were pressured into supporting the impeachment process.
Under the Constitution, impeachment complaints endorsed by at least one-third of House members are transmitted to the Senate for trial. A conviction would remove Duterte from office and permanently bar her from holding any public position./PN
