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The impeachment of a sitting vice president is a rare and highly significant event in Philippine politics. With the House of Representatives having voted to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, the country now awaits the next steps in the process. If the Senate convicts her, it could lead to major political shifts and legal consequences. Here’s what happens next.
Impeachment process and senate trial
After the House of Representatives approved the impeachment complaint with the required one-third vote, the case now moves to the Senate for trial. The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, will conduct hearings, with all 24 senators serving as jurors. The Senate President will preside over the proceedings, and a two-thirds vote (16 out of 24 senators) is needed to convict Duterte and remove her from office.
The trial is scheduled to begin on June 2, 2025, after the midterm elections. If the Senate acquits her, Duterte will remain as vice president and continue her duties. However, if convicted, she will face immediate removal from office.
Consequences of a conviction
Removal from office
If convicted, Sara Duterte will be removed as vice president, and the position will be declared vacant. This would be the first impeachment conviction of a vice president in Philippine history.
Succession and the next Vice President
According to the Philippine Constitution, the next in line for the vice presidency is the Senate President, unless Congress decides to hold a special election. If the current Senate President accepts the role, they will serve as vice president until the end of Duterte’s term in 2028.
Disqualification from public office
A conviction would also bar Duterte from holding any future public office. This would prevent her from running for president in 2028, a move that many political observers have speculated she was considering.
Potential legal cases
Beyond impeachment, Duterte could face separate legal battles, depending on the nature of the charges. If proven guilty of criminal offenses, she could be subject to fines, imprisonment, or other penalties under Philippine law.
Political impact
The impeachment and possible removal of Duterte would significantly reshape the political landscape. Here’s how:
Impact on the Marcos-Duterte Alliance: The impeachment highlights the widening rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Duterte. If convicted, it would signal a major shift in political power, likely strengthening Marcos’ hold over the government while weakening the Duterte faction.
Influence on the 2025 and 2028 Elections: A conviction could change the political dynamics heading into the 2025 midterm elections and the 2028 presidential race. Duterte’s allies may struggle to maintain their influence, while opposition parties could gain momentum.
Public Reaction and Protests: Duterte remains popular among certain groups, particularly in Mindanao. Mass protests, both in support of and against the impeachment, could intensify, leading to potential unrest.
What’s next?
As the Senate trial approaches, the nation will be closely watching the proceedings. Whether Duterte is acquitted or convicted, the outcome will have lasting effects on Philippine politics and governance.
In the meantime, her legal team is expected to mount a strong defense, challenging the evidence and allegations against her. Meanwhile, political analysts speculate on possible successors and the implications for the Marcos administration.
With the trial set to begin in June, the Philippines braces for what could be one of the most defining political events of the decade.
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