A justice committee in the Philippine House of Representatives has found probable cause to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, bringing her closer to a possible Senate trial that could threaten her political future.
The impeachment complaint will now proceed to the House plenary when Congress resumes next month. Support from at least one-third of lawmakers will be required for the case to move to the Senate for trial. If convicted, Duterte could be removed from office and barred from holding public office for life.
The case was filed by civil society and leftist groups, accusing the vice president of misusing public funds, possessing unexplained wealth, and allegedly threatening the lives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife, and his cousin.
All 53 members of the House justice committee reportedly voted in favour of finding probable cause for impeachment.
Duterte has denied all allegations, insisting the process is politically motivated. Her legal team argued that the committee exceeded its constitutional role by expanding discussions beyond the original complaints.
The impeachment battle comes amid a growing political feud between Duterte and President Marcos, who both won the 2022 election on a joint ticket before their alliance later collapsed publicly.
With Marcos constitutionally limited to one term, Duterte is widely considered a leading contender for the 2028 presidential election. Earlier this year, she officially announced her intention to run for president.
The controversy also adds to mounting political pressure on the Duterte family, as former President Rodrigo Duterte faces legal proceedings at the International Criminal Court over killings linked to his anti-drug campaign.
If the impeachment advances, Sara Duterte could become one of the highest-ranking officials in Philippine history to face such proceedings.
