The House Committee on Justice has approved a committee report on two impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, recommending her possible removal from office after finding probable cause. During Monday's hearing, Deputy Speaker David Suarez moved to approve the amended report, which now includes articles of impeachment. Committee Chairperson and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro then conducted a nominal vote, with all 55 attending members voting in favor of approval.
Next Steps
The committee report will be forwarded to the House Committee on Rules to be included in the plenary's order of business. Once deliberated in the plenary, it can be sponsored by committee officials and challenged by other lawmakers.
Previous Hearings
Prior to this, eight hearings were conducted from March to April, covering sufficiency in form and substance, issuance of subpoenas, and examination of allegations such as misuse of confidential funds, SALN issues, and statements regarding threats to certain government officials. After the hearings, the committee unanimously affirmed the existence of probable cause, with nearly all members voting in favor.
According to Luistro, the matter could be presented to the plenary on May 11 for the final decision of the entire House of Representatives.
