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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider VP Sara keeps justice panel guessing on attendance to impeachment hearings

VP Sara keeps justice panel guessing on attendance to impeachment hearings

Published Mar 23, 2026 06:07 pm

At A Glance

  • The House Committee on Justice has no clue as of Monday, March 23 whether or not Vice President Sara Duterte would personally participate in her impeachment proceedings, which are about to enter the crucial "hearings proper" stage.
Vice President Sara Duterte (Facebook)
Vice President Sara Duterte (Facebook)


The House Committee on Justice has no clue as of Monday, March 23 whether or not Vice President Sara Duterte would personally participate in her impeachment proceedings, which are about to enter the crucial "hearings proper" stage.
Thus, said committee member Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, who had been a staunch supporter of the pro-accoubtability process against Duterte in the current 20th Congress.
“As of posting time, there has been no word or message from her camp,” Ridon said in response to a reporter’s question.
Chaired by Batangas 2nd district Rep. Gerville "Jinky Bitrics" Luistro, the justice panel will begin the hearings proper on the impeachment case this coming Wednesday, March 25.
A formal invitation was sent to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) last Friday. Normally, the subject of an panel invite sends his or her regrets in writing if attendance isn't possible.
Ridon noted that participation in the proceedings forms part of the constitutional process, as he underscored the importance of giving the Vice President the opportunity to address the issues directly before the congressmen.
“The process is there to ensure that all sides are heard. It is an opportunity for the respondent to answer the allegations and clarify matters before the committee,” said the lawyer-legislator.
Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V, an endorser of one of the two remaining impeachment complaints against Duterte, said it was incumbent upon the lady official to show up on the proceedings.
“This is not just about politics—this is about accountability under the Constitution. The Vice President is duty-bound to respond to the impeachment complaints. Public office is a public trust—the people deserve answers,” underscored Ortega.
“The Filipino people are watching and waiting. This Wednesday is not just another hearing—it is a moment of accountability. Silence only raises more questions; clarity restores public confidence," he said.
He added that the proceedings provide a proper venue for Duterte to explain her side and respond to the issues raised.
“The House proceedings are not a trial—they are an opportunity to explain her side. This is her best and most direct chance to address the allegations. If there are answers, this is the proper forum to present them.”

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