Philippine lawmakers proceed with the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, setting up a Senate trial that is unfolding amid wider political turmoil ahead of the 2028 presidential election. The House of Representatives overwhelmingly backed the impeachment after a House justice committee found probable cause based on allegations including misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, betrayal of public trust, and culpable constitutional violations.
Following the House vote, the Senate is convened as an impeachment court and is expected to begin the trial in July, with some senators saying they want the process concluded by September. Duterte’s lawyer has asked the Senate to dismiss the impeachment case before the trial begins.
Political dynamics inside the Senate and competing alliances are expected to influence the proceedings. Some outlets note that Duterte’s political prospects could be affected either way: a conviction could remove her from office and block a presidential bid, while others argue the trial could strengthen her standing among supporters. Separately, reporting also links the wider dispute to ongoing tensions between Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and to efforts to control the Senate.
