MANILA, Philippines — Breaking her silence on the escalating political tension in the House of Representatives, Vice President Sara Duterte asserted today that she does not harbor “vindictive” feelings toward those pushing for her removal from office.
In a press conference held in Davao City on May 7, 2026, the Vice President addressed the “momentum” in the House, where committee reports for her impeachment have already been approved. Despite the looming plenary vote and the potential for the case to reach the Senate, Duterte maintained a defiant but calm stance regarding her political future.
When asked about the lawmakers who voted unanimously in the Justice Committee to move the impeachment forward, the Vice President emphasized that she is focused on her mandate rather than political score-settling.
“I am not known to be a vindictive person,” Duterte stated. “If they believe they are doing their duty to the country by pursuing this, then let the process unfold. My focus remains on the millions of Filipinos who still believe in the work we are doing at the Office of the Vice President.”
One of the primary articles of impeachment involves alleged threats she made against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the First Lady, and the former House Speaker. Duterte dismissed these claims as “political theater” and a “misinterpretation” of her previous statements.
- Political Context: The Vice President suggested that the charges are part of a coordinated effort to “neutralize” her influence ahead of the 2028 elections.
- Defense Strategy: Her legal team has already filed a verified answer, arguing that the allegations lack “direct evidence” and are based largely on hearsay and social media soundbites.
While the numbers in the House appear to be leaning heavily in favor of impeachment—with some insiders predicting over 200 votes—Duterte claimed that many local leaders and citizens continue to reach out to her in private.
“There is a difference between the noise in the halls of Congress and the sentiment of the people on the ground,” she said. “We will face this in the proper forum, and we will do so with the truth as our only shield.”
The Vice President confirmed that she has no intention of resigning and is prepared to defend herself in a Senate trial should the House transmit the Articles of Impeachment next week. “I have survived many political storms before,” she concluded. “This is just another one that we will navigate with the help of the Filipino people.”
As the May 11 plenary vote approaches, the political landscape remains highly volatile, with both the “UniTeam” factions and the opposition bracing for a historic legal showdown.