Duterte camp defends impeachment reply

Mikaela Ariar, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
June 28, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Inday Sara Duterte

PHILIPPINES – Vice President Sara Duterte’s camp defends impeachment reply because, according to the House prosecution panel, she is not allowed to use her freedom of expression as a blanket defense in her impeachment case, stating that constitutional rights are not absolute.

House spokesperson Zia Adiong stated that Duterte’s alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez should be taken in a serious manner. He warned that such comments could normalize threats and set a bad example for the community.

However, Duterte’s legal team called the impeachment accusation “fundamentally flawed” and contested the proceedings on procedural, constitutional, and jurisdictional grounds, arguing that it should be dismissed. The defense responded to the Senate impeachment court by arguing that the House Committee on Justice had acted dishonestly by holding what it called a “mini trial” and a “fishing expedition” before to properly sending the articles of impeachment.

Duterte’s side also denied the substantive allegations against her. They rejected claims of misuse of confidential money, arguing that the Commission on Audit findings are not finalized and that there is no evidence she personally benefited from the funds.