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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Panelo stands by claim on Duterte impeachment, fires back at Lacson

Panelo stands by claim on Duterte impeachment, fires back at Lacson

Published Apr 19, 2026 12:22 pm
Former presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo (PCO/File)
Former presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo (PCO/File)

Former presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo stood by his claim that several senators may vote to convict Vice President Sara Duterte in a possible impeachment trial, as he pushed back against criticism from Senator Panfilo Lacson.

In a statement on Sunday, April 19, Panelo said his assessment was based on what he described as Lacson’s apparent stance on the Vice President.

“A public official cannot be onion-skinned,” he said.

“If he does not agree with my opinion, he can say so, but lacing his response with insults… is a mark of idiocy,” he added.

Panelo said his remarks stemmed from what he sees as Lacson’s “anti-Duterte demeanor,” which he claimed is evident to the public.

He maintained that his statement was an opinion, not a definitive conclusion.

Lacson earlier rejected Panelo’s claim, calling it “complete nonsense” that would “gain nothing.”

The senator, who may sit as a senator-judge in an impeachment trial, also called Panelo “ungas” (fool) for making the remark.

Panelo did not back down, saying criticism is part of public discourse.

He also accused Lacson of being unable to handle opposing views.

“If he cannot stand the heat in the kitchen, he should leave it,” Panelo said.

Aside from Lacson, Panelo also mentioned Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Senators Risa Hontiveros and Francis Pangilinan as among those he believes may vote to convict Duterte. He did not cite specific evidence for the claim.

The exchange comes as impeachment complaints against Duterte are being prepared in the House of Representatives.

The Vice President is facing allegations of betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, and bribery.

The complaints largely stem from the alleged questionable use of around P650 million in confidential funds under the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education. Duterte served as education secretary from mid-2022 to June 2024.

If the House approves the complaints, the case will be transmitted to the Senate, which will convene as an impeachment court. Senators will serve as judges in the trial.

Vice President Duterte earlier announced plans to run for president in 2028, as impeachment complaints were being prepared against her.

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