VP Duterte Seeks Dismissal of Impeachment Charges

Vice President Sara Duterte has formally asked the Senate impeachment court to dismiss the charges against her, arguing the case is constitutionally and procedurally flawed. Her legal team submitted a comprehensive answer to the articles of impeachment on Monday, June 1, meeting the deadline set by the court.

In the filing, Duterte’s defense contends the impeachment articles suffer from fatal defects and fail to meet the constitutional standard for removing an impeachable officer. The defense asserts the allegations do not establish culpable violation of the Constitution, bribery, graft and corruption, high crimes, or betrayal of public trust. A key argument is that the House Committee on Justice improperly conducted what it called a “mini-trial” by examining witnesses and evidence, a function the defense says belongs solely to the Senate. The defense also alleges prejudgment, citing public statements by some committee members who reportedly declared sufficient votes for impeachment existed before hearings concluded.

The Vice President’s legal team further argues her right to due process was violated. They state that new evidence not included in the original complaints was...