Foolproof Case by Abante: Why Sara Duterte’s Impeachment Took Time
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JUNE 11,2025
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives took time to act on the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte to ensure the case was legally solid before sending it to the Senate.
House Spokesperson Princess Abante explained this in a press briefing at the Batasang Pambansa on Tuesday. She responded to Senate President Francis Escudero, who noted the delay in addressing the three impeachment complaints filed in December 2024.
Abante agreed the House plays a similar role to a prosecutor. It receives petitions from private complainants and must ensure each case is strong enough to withstand trial.
“Yes, the impeachment process starts in the House,” Abante said.
“We can’t submit a weak complaint or one that lacks the legal basis. This is a constitutional process, not a simple task.”
She emphasized that the House followed proper steps as laid out in the Constitution. Now, she said, it’s the Senate’s turn to conduct the trial.
Foolproof Case by Abante Why the Process Took Time
Civil society groups filed the first complaint on December 2, 2024, backed by former Senator Leila de Lima and endorsed by Akbayan Rep. Percival Cendaña. It cited misuse of confidential funds and threats against public officials.
Progressive groups led by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan filed a second complaint two days later. This one focused on betrayal of public trust. Lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc endorsed it.
Soon after, religious groups submitted a third complaint. Camarines Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado and Aambis-Owa Rep. Lex Colada endorsed it.
Though the session was ongoing, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco didn’t forward the complaints to Speaker Martin Romualdez. Escudero later pointed out this inaction during a Senate speech.
“House rules clearly say that any valid complaint must be sent to the Speaker immediately and referred to the Justice Committee within 10 days,” Escudero said.
He stressed that Velasco’s office never acted on the documents—even as Congress adjourned on February 5.
In December 2024, reporters asked Velasco about the delay. He said they were waiting for more groups to file. In January, he hinted at a fourth complaint being filed when session resumed. That fourth complaint never came during the session.
Foolproof Case by Abante Fourth Complaint Changed Everything
On the last day of session, 215 lawmakers signed and verified a fourth complaint. This met the constitutional threshold: at least one-third of the House.
That move made the complaint the official Articles of Impeachment, requiring the Senate to start the trial. The verified complaint was sent immediately.
The Constitution allows this under Article XI, Section 3(4), which states that a verified complaint by one-third of House members triggers the Senate trial.
House Says Two Months Was Reasonable
Abante defended the timeline. She said building a strong, legally sound case took priority over speed.
“If our goal is to ensure everything follows due process, then two months is reasonable,” she explained. “But of course, time is relative.”
With the Senate now acting as the impeachment court, the nation watches closely. This case could reshape Philippine politics and challenge key officials’ accountability.
RELATED STORY: Senate Sends Sara Duterte Impeachment Case Back to House for Certification
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