Calls for the Senate to proceed with Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial continue to grow, as lawmakers say overwhelming public sentiment could drive the chamber to finally take action.
According to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by the Stratbase Group, 66 percent of Filipinos want Duterte to face an impeachment trial, primarily to address lingering questions over the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds.
Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno said on Wednesday that public pressure has long played a significant role in past impeachment cases.
“In my experience… public clamor plays a big role,” Diokno told Inquirer.net, referencing previous high-profile trials such as that of former President Joseph Estrada. “Impeachment is not only a legal proceeding, but a political one too.”
He noted that many senators, eyeing reelection, are likely mindful of how delaying or proceeding with the trial could affect public perception.
Rep. Antonio Tinio of ACT Teachers party-list echoed the sentiment, saying the survey results reflect widespread public demand for transparency in the handling of confidential funds. He urged the Senate to act promptly once the 20th Congress opens on July 28.
“The people know VP Sara must explain how the funds were used, and the proper venue for that is an impeachment trial,” Tinio said in an interview. “The longer the delay, the more pressure builds. People want answers.”
Duterte was impeached on February 5 after 215 House members signed the fourth complaint against her, citing alleged fund misuse, constitutional violations, and intimidation of government officials. The articles of impeachment were immediately transmitted to the Senate.
However, a full trial has yet to commence. On June 10, the Senate convened as an impeachment court but ultimately returned the articles to the House, citing unresolved constitutional requirements.
The Senate has insisted that before a trial begins, the House must certify that no other impeachment complaint was filed within the same year and confirm the 20th Congress intends to pursue the case. Only the first requirement has been fulfilled.
With the 20th Congress set to open in a matter of days, pressure is mounting for the Senate to act decisively.
Prosecution spokesperson Atty. Antonio Audie Bucoy stressed that the Constitution is clear: “The Senate shall have the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment.” He emphasized that this mandate does not allow the Senate to merely receive and dismiss charges without a formal trial.
The SWS survey also showed that only 19 percent of respondents were against a trial, while 15 percent were undecided — further underscoring the strong majority who demand accountability and clarity.
