Survey showing 41% for VP impeachment reflects public frustration

By Filane Mikee Cervantes, Philippine News Agency

The most frequently cited reason for supporting Duterte’s ouster was the alleged misuse of confidential funds (46 percent), followed by her refusal to answer investigations (36 percent). (File Photo: House of Representatives of the Philippines/Facebook)

MANILA – Lawmakers said Thursday the survey showing that 41 percent of Filipinos support the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte underscores growing public frustration over her leadership and alleged misuse of funds.

House of Representatives Assistant Majority Leader Jay Khonghun said the findings of the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, commissioned by Stratbase Consultancy, reflect public outrage over Duterte’s alleged mismanagement of PHP612.5 million in confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) during her term as secretary.

“The numbers don’t lie. The public is demanding accountability, and this survey reflects their growing frustration over the glaring irregularities surrounding the Vice President’s actions,” Khonghun said.

He said the survey results reinforce the responsibility of Congress to uphold the integrity of the impeachment process.

“The survey is just the beginning. The evidence is overwhelming, and the Filipino people deserve justice,” Khonghun said. “No one is above the law – not even the Vice President.”

Three impeachment complaints against the Vice President have been filed in the House based on multiple grounds, including culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, bribery, and other high crimes.

The SWS survey, conducted from Dec. 12 to 18, 2024, showed that 41 percent of the respondents support Duterte’s impeachment, 35 percent oppose it, and 19 percent remain undecided.

The most frequently cited reason for supporting Duterte’s ouster was the alleged misuse of confidential funds (46 percent), followed by her refusal to answer investigations (36 percent).

Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega said the impeachment complaints are not politically motivated but are supported by substantial evidence uncovered during hearings of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.

He cited findings from congressional investigations, including fabricated recipients, such as “Mary Grace Piattos,” and numerous suspicious transactions tied to Duterte’s confidential funds.

“This is about accountability. The evidence against the Vice President is glaring, from the misuse of confidential funds to a pattern of governance riddled with questions. The Filipino people deserve answers, and their support for impeachment shows they are demanding transparency and justice,” Ortega said.

Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña, who endorsed the first impeachment complaint against Duterte, said the survey not only validates the “growing distrust” toward Duterte but also highlights the public’s determination to hold leaders accountable.

“This significant figure reflects the growing public consensus for her removal from office, driven by mounting frustrations over her questionable leadership and actions. It is a clear indication that the Filipino people are awakening to the urgent need for accountability among our highest officials,” Cendaña said.

“The momentum for justice is undeniable, and the call for truth and integrity in governance continues to gain strength.”