VICE President Duterte (center). (FB)
DAVAO CITY – Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Duterte cautioned his colleagues in the House of Representatives against endorsing what he described as a pre-determined impeachment effort against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Sunday, Jan. 11, ahead of the possible filing of a new impeachment complaint in February, Rep. Duterte warned lawmakers not to pass off elite political decisions as the will of the people.
The Davao City lawmaker questioned claims that impeachment reflects the “voice of the people,” asking whether legislators had actually consulted their constituents or merely followed the dictates of political power centers.
“Some say impeachment is the voice of the people. But when did you speak to your constituents?” Rep. Duterte said. “Or is it more accurate that you spoke with the administration, the budget, and power?”
He cast doubt on the speed and apparent coordination of lawmakers supporting impeachment, suggesting the process was scripted and driven by political incentives rather than conscience.
“If this is truly about conscience, why does it look like there is a script? Why the rush? And why does a supermajority move all at once as if under orders?” the lawmaker said.
Rep. Duterte warned that there are no “free signatures” in politics, urging fellow legislators to be transparent about what they stand to gain and where their loyalties lie.
“Before you sign, answer to the people: What is the exchange, who dictated the move, and to whom are you truly loyal?” Rep. Duterte said, adding that any promised funds involved would still be public money.
He emphasized that public funds belong to citizens who are “already struggling and angry at the greed of those in power.” He said lawmakers should not use the name of the people to justify questionable decisions.
Rep. Duterte called on Filipinos not to remain silent, encouraging citizens to take legal action if they discover “ghost projects” or irregularities in their local governments.
He said public funds are not personal money, and the people have the right to demand accountability and justice.
The lawmaker emphasized that impeachment should not be treated as a political favor, a paid service, or a debt of gratitude, but rather as a matter of accountability and justice. “If you cannot face the people and stand for the truth, do not use the name of the people to cover your decision,” Rep. Duterte said.