Why Congress Pushes Sara Duterte Impeachment While Bigger Scandals Fade

The impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte is advancing in Congress, raising questions about whether impeachment is being used as a tool for accountability or as a political strategy ahead of the 2028 elections. This discussion explains why impeachment under the Philippine Constitution is ultimately political, shaped less by legal standards and more by vote counts, alliances, and committee control.

Panelists argue that the intense focus on Sara Duterte’s confidential funds reflects shifting political interests rather than consistent principles. They contrast this scrutiny with much larger budget controversies that received limited congressional attention, including alleged flood control irregularities, ghost projects, and the diversion of unprogrammed funds away from major infrastructure such as the Metro Manila Subway, North–South Rail, Panay–Guimaras Road, and the Laguna Lake highway. These delays are said to carry massive economic costs.

The conversation also explains why impeachment complaints filed against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. were dismissed early in the House, while those targeting the Vice President continue to move forward. Speakers describe impeachment as a process where political alignment often outweighs evidence, especially when control of committees and voting blocs is already decided.

By drawing parallels to earlier accountability moments in Philippine history, the episode raises concerns about declining public trust, stalled infrastructure, and unresolved budget issues. The focus shifts from a single impeachment case to broader questions about governance, budget priorities, and political power centered in Congress and Malacañang.