Senate Archives Impeachment vs. VP Duterte

The Philippine Senate voted 19-4, with one abstention, to archive the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte after the Supreme Court ruled the complaint unconstitutional for violating the one-year bar rule and due process. Minority senators and civil society groups protested, claiming the move undermines the Senate’s constitutional role in impeachment trials. Senate President Francis Escudero defended the decision and criticized retired Supreme Court justices who opposed the ruling, while Senator Panfilo Lacson questioned the lack of clear rules for handling such motions outside a formal impeachment court. Duterte’s defense team welcomed the Senate's compliance with the Supreme Court and turned their attention to submitting a required response. The House of Representatives has appealed the Supreme Court ruling, leaving open the possibility that the impeachment case could be revived if the Court reverses itself. The situation highlights ongoing debates about constitutional procedure, legislative authority, and separation of powers in the Philippines.