Vice President Sara Duterte spoke out on Friday, expressing that she was “okay” following her impeachment by the House of Representatives. In her first public comments since the event, Duterte acknowledged the political challenges she faces, stating, “Ang tanging masasabi ko na lamang sa puntong ito ay God save the Philippines.”
She also took the opportunity to extend her heartfelt gratitude to her supporters, saying, “Bukod dito, nais ko na lang ipaabot ang aking taos pusong pasasalamat sa mga kababayan na patuloy nagdarasal, sumusuporta, nagtitiwala at patuloy na nagmamahal sa akin. Manalig kayo dahil sa taong bayan ang tagumpay.”
Duterte revealed that preparations for the impeachment had been underway as early as November 2023, following reports that House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Party List Representative France Castro was planning to file a formal complaint against her. “So November of 2023, there were already lawyers doing their work for the impeachment. We leave it to the lawyers,” she said.
The Vice President’s impeachment, which took place on Wednesday, was based on allegations of “violation of the constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, and other high crimes.” Following the impeachment, the Senate is expected to convene a tribunal to decide her fate. Should she be convicted, Duterte will face removal from her position and a lifetime ban from holding any public office.
Despite the ongoing proceedings, Duterte reassured the public of her well-being, saying simply, “I’m okay.”
