By Blessing Nweke
The Philippine Senate on Monday opened the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, launching a landmark political process that could reshape the country’s leadership ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
Duterte faces allegations including misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and making threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other senior officials. She has firmly denied all accusations, describing the impeachment case as politically motivated and part of an effort to weaken her political future.
The trial is the first impeachment proceeding against a sitting Philippine vice president. Senators have been sworn in as judges and are expected to hear evidence and testimony over the coming weeks. A two-thirds majority, or at least 16 of the 24 senators, is required to convict Duterte and remove her from office, a decision that would also bar her from holding public office in the future.
The proceedings come amid an increasingly bitter political split between the Marcos and Duterte families, once allies during the 2022 national elections. Their relationship has deteriorated over policy differences and legal controversies, including the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is facing proceedings before the International Criminal Court.
Security has been tightened around the Senate building, with thousands of police officers deployed as supporters and critics of Duterte gathered outside to stage demonstrations. Authorities have urged protesters to remain peaceful while lawmakers conduct what is expected to be one of the most closely watched political trials in Philippine history. Analysts say the outcome could significantly influence the country’s political landscape and the race for the presidency in 2028.
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