Former Aide's Allegations Intensify Impeachment Cases Against Vice President Sara Duterte
The second set of impeachment complaints targeting Vice President Sara Duterte has emerged with a significant new development, as allegations from her former aide, Ramil Madriaga, take center stage. In three separate complaints filed by the Makabayan Coalition, civil society groups, and members of the clergy and legal profession, Madriaga's sworn affidavit, submitted in December 2025, has been incorporated, adding a layer of personal testimony to the legal challenges.
Sworn Testimony Alleges Corruption and Cash Deliveries
In his affidavit, Madriaga has called on the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate Duterte for alleged corruption, asserting that part of his duties involved delivering large sums of money under the Vice President's orders. The complaints specifically reference Madriaga's purported role in establishing the Vice President Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) and claims of transporting cash allegedly sourced from confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education. These allegations, if proven, could have serious implications for Duterte's political standing and legal accountability.
Cyberlibel Complaints Add Complexity to the Legal Battle
Simultaneously, the situation has grown more convoluted with Col. Raymund Dante Lachica, the former head of the VPSPG, filing cyberlibel complaints against Madriaga and his lawyer. These complaints relate to allegedly defamatory online posts, introducing a counter-narrative that could influence public perception and legal proceedings. This development underscores the escalating tensions and multifaceted nature of the controversy surrounding the Vice President.
The inclusion of Madriaga's testimony marks a pivotal shift in the impeachment efforts, as it provides firsthand accounts that could bolster the cases against Duterte. As the legal battles unfold, observers are closely monitoring how these allegations and counter-allegations will impact the political landscape and the integrity of governmental institutions.
