MANILA, Philippines – The Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) on Sunday warned lawmakers planning to vote in favor of impeaching Vice President Sara Duterte that they might lose the support of the former ruling party in the next election, as the House of Representatives prepares to tackle the impeachment complaint.
PDP President and Senator Koko Pimentel said in a statement that the party would not endorse any member who votes to impeach Duterte, who is also a member of the party. The warning comes as the House Committee on Justice is expected to begin deliberations on the impeachment complaint filed against Duterte, who is accused of betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution.
The impeachment complaint, filed by a group of activists and lawyers, alleges that Duterte misused public funds and failed to disclose her assets and liabilities. Duterte has denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated.
Political analysts say the PDP's warning could influence the votes of some lawmakers, particularly those who rely on the party's machinery for their reelection. However, others may defy the party if they believe the impeachment is justified.
The House has 60 session days to act on the impeachment complaint. If the House votes to impeach Duterte, the case will be transmitted to the Senate for trial.
