Supreme Court Urged to Force Senate Into Impeaching Sara Duterte—Will She Be Removed?

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In a significant legal maneuver, Attorney Catalino Generillo Jr. has petitioned the Supreme Court to compel the Senate to promptly convene as an impeachment court and initiate the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This development intensifies the political turmoil following the Vice President's recent impeachment by the House of Representatives.

The Impeachment Proceedings

On February 5, 2025, the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on multiple charges, including alleged corruption, unexplained wealth, and threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The impeachment motion garnered substantial support, with 215 out of 306 legislators voting in favor, surpassing the required majority. This action underscores a deepening rift between Duterte and Marcos, two of the nation's most prominent political figures. 

Senate's Stance and Legal Implications

Despite the House's decisive action, Senate President Francis Escudero announced that the Senate could not commence the impeachment trial until June 2, when Congress reconvenes after the midterm elections. Escudero emphasized that senators must take an oath while Congress is in session before they can function as an impeachment court. 

In response, Attorney Generillo filed a petition for mandamus, urging the Supreme Court to direct the Senate to fulfill its "inescapable constitutional duty" by constituting itself as an impeachment court without delay. Generillo contends that postponing the trial undermines the constitutional process and denies the public timely justice. 

Vice President Duterte's Position

Vice President Duterte has consistently denied the allegations against her, characterizing them as politically motivated attacks aimed at derailing her potential 2028 presidential bid. She has accused President Marcos and his allies of orchestrating the impeachment to tarnish her reputation. In a public address, Duterte urged her supporters to refrain from protests and instead express their views through social media platforms. 

Political Ramifications

The impeachment and the subsequent legal battles have far-reaching implications for the Philippines' political landscape, especially with the upcoming midterm elections in May. The situation has polarized public opinion and intensified the power struggle between the Duterte and Marcos factions. The Senate's handling of the impeachment trial will be pivotal in determining the nation's political trajectory and could influence the balance of power leading up to the 2028 presidential elections.

Conclusion

Attorney Generillo's petition to the Supreme Court adds a new dimension to the unfolding political drama in the Philippines. As the nation awaits the Court's decision and the Senate's actions, the outcome of this legal and political confrontation remains uncertain, holding significant consequences for the country's future governance and political alliances.

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