VP Sara Duterte skips first day of impeachment trial

Neena Mae Rayos, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
July 6, 2026

(Photo Courtesy: Inday Sara Duterte | Facebook)

MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte has opted to skip the opening of her own impeachment trial, defying pressure from the prosecution and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to face the Senate court in person.

Her spokesperson, Michael Poa, confirmed her absence just before the 2 p.m., citing a scheduling conflict with preparations for the approaching Super Typhoon Bavi.

“For now, we can say that she will not attend today. She is appearing through counsel,” Poa said.

Her legal team added that she may only appear in person if it becomes strategically necessary later.

Duterte has previously vowed a “bloodbath” if brought to trial and claimed she was ready to confront her accusers.

This trial sees Duterte charged with four articles of impeachment covering alleged misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and grave threats to assassinate President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.

A conviction on any single count requires 16 of the 24 senator-judges and would not only remove her from office but also permanently bar her from running for the presidency in 2028.

Her impeachment trial is expected to span 92 days, likely pushing the proceedings into early 2027.