The House of Representatives has announced plans to appeal the Supreme Court’s recent decision dismissing the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte. According to House leaders, the Court’s ruling was flawed, and a motion for reconsideration will be filed within the allowed time frame.
On July 25, the Supreme Court declared that the impeachment proceedings against the Vice President were unconstitutional, citing a violation of the one-year rule under the 1987 Constitution. The Court pointed out that this was the fourth complaint filed against VP Duterte within a 12-month period, regardless of whether all were endorsed to the Senate.
House officials disputed the ruling, arguing that the complaint underwent proper procedure and had enough support from lawmakers. A House spokesperson said the Court misread the plenary records and overlooked the constitutional authority of Congress to initiate impeachment proceedings. They also criticized the Court for allegedly imposing new standards not found in the Constitution.
Meanwhile, the decision is seen as a political win for Vice President Duterte, who is widely speculated to be considering a presidential bid in 2028. Her supporters have welcomed the ruling as a vindication, while critics worry it could weaken accountability mechanisms for high-ranking officials.
With the ruling in effect, the impeachment trial in the Senate will no longer proceed. Under constitutional rules, no similar complaint may be filed against VP Duterte until a full year has passed from the date of the last filing. Lawmakers and the public are now awaiting the Court’s response to the House’s forthcoming motion for reconsideration.
