APCHRP in Support of the Filipino People’s Call: Expedite Sara Duterte’s Impeachment Trial
The Asia Pacific Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines expresses its dismay over the deliberate delay in the impeachment proceedings against Sara Duterte. This intentional stalling undermines the principles of accountability and justice. We echo the widespread clamor across the nation: the impeachment trial of Sara Duterte must move forward without further delay.
Sara Duterte has committed a grave offense against the Filipino people. While ordinary citizens suffer from widespread poverty, unemployment, and low wages, she has been misusing public funds, with ₱500 million stolen. Sara Duterte has failed to explain this to the public, and there are serious concerns over the appearance of suspicious and possibly fake names in the documents related to the fund.
As early as February 5, 2025, the House of Representatives had already rendered its decision on Sara Duterte’s impeachment, with a significant majority – 215 out of 306 members – voting in favor of proceeding with the charges. This overwhelming vote reflects a strong mandate from lawmakers to hold her accountable and affirms the gravity of the offense she has committed. It also underscores the urgency of moving forward with the impeachment process without further delay, in the interest of transparency, justice, and public trust.
At present, the Senate, under the leadership of Senator Chiz Escudero, has delayed the impeachment process – an act that appears to be intentional. On February 6, Escudero stated that no session would take place while Congress is on break, and he made public statements that seemed aimed at justifying or excusing the delay. Meanwhile, Senator Francis Tolentino remarked that the impeachment would be considered “functionally dismissed” if the process is not completed by June 30, 2025. These developments raise serious concerns about political maneuvering and the lack of urgency in addressing a pressing national issue.
The APCHRP strongly condemns these deliberate efforts to obstruct justice and protect public officials accused of massive corruption. The will of the people and the integrity of democratic institutions must not be subverted by political convenience. We call on Marcos Jr. and the Senate to fulfill their constitutional duty and ensure that the impeachment process is carried out with the transparency, seriousness, and urgency it deserves, and not to be complicit in the crimes committed by Sarah Duterte. The Filipino people deserve truth, accountability, and justice – nothing less. ###
#MarcosSingilinDutertePanagutin
For Reference: Sr. Patricia Fox
APCHRP Spokesperson
