Supreme Court Voids Duterte Impeachment Complaint

The Supreme Court of the Philippines unanimously voided the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, ruling it unconstitutional based on violations of the one-year bar rule and due process, and citing Article XI, Section 3, Paragraph 5 of the 1987 Constitution. The case, centered on allegations of corruption and improper use of confidential funds by Duterte, has been seen as politically charged amid her ongoing feud with President Marcos. The House of Representatives plans to file a motion for reconsideration, disputing the Supreme Court's factual findings as incorrect and contrary to official records. While Duterte's allies praised the decision as an affirmation of the rule of law, critics—including legal experts, progressive groups, and some senators—warned it could undermine accountability and set a troubling precedent. The Palace called for public respect for the ruling and trust in institutions. Despite the Court's clarification that Duterte is not exonerated, the decision is widely viewed as strengthening her political position ahead of the 2028 presidential race.