Several lawmakers expressed dismay over Vice President Sara Duterte’s remarks during her first press conference after the House of Representatives approved her impeachment. Members of the Makabayan bloc criticized Duterte’s “cavalier attitude,” saying she trivialized the charges against her.
Duterte, who had remained silent since the impeachment vote, finally addressed the issue on Friday, briefly answering questions from journalists. She lightheartedly compared impeachment to a romantic heartbreak, drawing criticism from opposition lawmakers.
“We are appalled by Vice President Sara Duterte’s cavalier attitude towards her historic impeachment,” the Makabayan bloc stated, adding that her response showed “utter disregard for the gravity of the charges against her.”
ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro underscored the seriousness of the proceedings. “Impeachment is not like breaking up with a partner. This is about accountability and the misuse of public funds,” she said.
Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas pointed out that Duterte may find humor in the situation, but the public does not. “The Vice President may find it amusing, but the Filipino people are not laughing,” she remarked.
Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel added, “This is not a simple Valentine’s story. This is about millions of pesos in public funds that remain unaccounted for.”
Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña also took a jab at Duterte’s statement, where she said, “God save the Philippines.” Cendaña responded, “If anyone should be saying that, it’s the people suffering from her family’s corruption, incompetence, and impunity.”
Manila Third District Rep. Joel Chua, an impeachment prosecutor, welcomed Duterte’s upcoming legal battle. “Magkita na lang kami sa Senate Impeachment Court. We are ready for her and her antics,” he said.
However, some lawmakers, including Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, defended Duterte’s right to react as she wished. “We have to give it to her if she’s not taking it seriously. That’s her right,” Barbers commented.
Duterte, meanwhile, said she has yet to be fully briefed by her lawyers but assured supporters that her legal team is prepared for the next steps. The final decision on her removal now rests with the Senate, which will convene as an impeachment court.
