Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte condemned the impeachment efforts against Vice President Sara Duterte, calling it politically motivated.
In a statement, Paolo criticized the lawmakers, led by Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin, for rushing the process.
“I am appalled and enraged by the desperate and politically motivated efforts to railroad the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. The sinister maneuvering of certain lawmakers, led by Rep. Garin, to hastily collect signatures and push for the immediate approval and transmittal of this baseless impeachment case is a clear act of political persecution,” Rep. Duterte stated.
According to Paolo, the actions of the lawmakers were clearly political persecution, as he stated that the gathering of signatures was manipulated to hasten what he called the baseless impeachment.
He also warned of a “reckless abuse of power,” asserting that it would not benefit the administration.
“This is not just about VP Sara Duterte—this is about the will of the Filipino people. The growing discontent and frustration across the country will not be contained for long. Mark my words: this reckless abuse of power will not end in their favor.”
Meanwhile, Rep. Garin called the accusations malicious, particularly the claim that she led the impeachment efforts against the Vice President.
Garin said that those who provided such information should face her directly.
She clarified that she did not have the power to influence her colleagues.
Garin also defended her decision to sign the impeachment petition, stating it was part of her constitutional duty.
“Very malicious. Whoever fed him the info should come out and face me. Who am I to maneuver my colleagues? We were invited to a party consultation where officers explained the articles of impeachment. I was present, though late. I signed since it’s my constitutional duty,” said Rep. Garin.
