MANILA – Malacañang clarified on January 13, 2026, that the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte is fundamentally about ensuring accountability, with no exceptions for anyone found culpable. Palace press officer Claire Castro explained that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has shifted from his initial opposition to viewing the process as necessary for justice, emphasizing that if lawmakers have evidence, they should proceed without interference from the executive.
This comes amid preparations for a fresh impeachment bid against Duterte after the one-year constitutional ban ends on February 6, and speculation about a potential complaint against Marcos himself for alleged budget-related betrayal of public trust.
Key Points from Palace Response
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| President’s Stance Shift | Initially called impeachment a “waste of time” in November 2024; now supports accountability process like flood probes. |
| No Interference | Marcos respects Congress’s mandate; will not meddle if evidence exists. |
| On Potential Marcos Impeachment | Palace dismisses as unsubstantiated; notes Marcos ordered probes and didn’t steal funds. |
| Context | Fresh Duterte complaint possible after Feb 6 ban; 2024 complaints led to House approval but Senate archival. |
Castro: “Whoever should be held accountable should be made accountable. That’s the President’s order. There should be no exceptions.”