Vice President Sara Duterte expressed her readiness to face the impeachment complaints filed against her.
“I welcome the impeachment case filed against me, which they have been planning since last year,” Duterte said in Argil Relator’s Monday report on 24 Oras.
This was Duterte’s response to two impeachment complaints filed against her in the House of Representatives.
“I’m okay with the impeachment case because it focuses solely on me. I’ll be the only one investigated and targeted. My staff in the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and my former colleagues in the Department of Education (DepEd) will no longer be implicated. This allows me to finally respond to the accusations against me,” she said.
The impeachment complaints allege irregularities in the use of confidential funds in her offices and include her controversial remarks about an “assassination plot” involving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Despite President Marcos’ expressed opposition, the complaints were formally filed.
In addition, the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) held a rally opposing the impeachment moves.
“I understand that the INC supports peace in our country, as they know peace leads to development. I appreciate their support for both the Office of the President and the Office of the Vice President because this reflects the shared aspiration of our countrymen for peace and sustained progress,” Duterte remarked.
As the House Good Government and Public Accountability panel concluded its inquiry into the confidential funds of her offices, Duterte said her team can now breathe easier.
Regarding her absence from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) probe set for December 11, Duterte cited valid reasons.
“My lawyers explained that I’m not required to attend the NBI investigation in person and can submit a letter or affidavit instead. Additionally, we have thanksgiving activities on that day, and afterward, I’ll return to Davao City for my uncle’s burial,” Duterte explained.
Last November 29, Duterte also failed to appear before the NBI regarding allegations of threatening the President’s life.