MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives is preparing to scrutinize the legal and factual basis of a second impeachment complaint filed against Vice President Sara Duterte, with lawmakers emphasizing that the process must strictly adhere to constitutional standards.
The report, published on Monday, February 9, 2026, highlights the delicate balancing act facing the lower chamber as it navigates a highly polarized political landscape.
The Second Complaint This latest attempt to remove the Vice President follows a previous bid that failed to gain significant traction. The new complaint reportedly focuses on:
- Confidential Fund Allegations: Continued scrutiny over the use and liquidation of confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) during her tenure as Vice President and as Secretary of the Department of Education.
- Constitutional Violations: Allegations of betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution linked to the ongoing “flood control” corruption probe and other inter-agency fund transfers.
- Political Fallout: The complaint comes amid a widening rift between the Vice President and the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., further complicated by recent leadership friction in the Senate.
Lawmakers’ Stance House leaders have signaled that while the chamber has a duty to entertain valid complaints, the burden of proof rests heavily on the complainants.
- Substance Over Politics: Lawmakers stressed that for an impeachment to proceed, it must not be viewed as “politically motivated” but must be grounded in “verifiable and heavy” evidence.
- Judicial Scrutiny: Members of the House committee on justice noted that the grounds must be weighed carefully to ensure the process does not weaken the office of the Vice Presidency or destabilize the government.
- Due Process: Supporters of the Vice President have dismissed the move as a “distraction” and a “smear campaign,” maintaining that she has consistently complied with auditing and legal requirements.
Context: A Congested Legislative Calendar The impeachment talk coincides with several major national issues, including:
- The “Flood Control” Probe: The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation into anomalous infrastructure projects, which has implicated several high-ranking officials.
- Impeachment of Other Officials: Discussion of the VP’s impeachment occurs alongside potential proceedings for other figures mentioned in recent corruption reports.
- Legislative Priorities: House leaders are also under pressure to address pressing economic issues, such as the review of travel tax funds and the call for teachers’ salary hikes.
As the House committee on justice prepares to deliberate on the form and substance of the complaint, the nation remains watchful of how this potential constitutional crisis will be managed within the halls of Congress.