Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon stated that Vice President Sara Duterte's declaration of intent to run for president in 2028 is irrelevant to the House of Representatives' handling of the four impeachment complaints against her. Ridon emphasized that the House is focused on determining the sufficiency in form and substance of the complaints. The House committee on justice is set to begin deliberations tomorrow, March 2, 2026.
On March 1, 2026, Rep. Terry Ridon, chairman of the House committee on public accounts, announced that Vice President Sara Duterte's ambition for the presidency in 2028 has no bearing on the House of Representatives' treatment of the impeachment complaints against her. Ridon stated at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, 'In my view, Vice President Sara Duterte’s declaration for president is irrelevant in the disposition of the House committee on justice and the House in general, specifically in her impeachment.'
This came after members of the National Unity Party said they would exercise a conscience vote and wait for evidence before deciding. It raised questions on whether Duterte's early announcement had influenced the political mood in the chamber.
Four verified complaints have been filed against Duterte, accusing her of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, bribery, and other high crimes. The allegations include inadequate liquidation of confidential and intelligence funds, fabricated documents, refusal to cooperate in congressional inquiries, and unexplained wealth along with omissions in her Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).
Batangas 2nd district Rep. Gerville Luistro chairs the House committee on justice, which will deliberate starting tomorrow. According to Ridon, 'We will deliberate it, we will vote on it on those two points next week. If this will continue towards full proceedings after determination of substance, then we will see at the end of Justice (committee) deliberation proceedings in the coming Wednesday.'
Fr. Joel Saballa, one of the complainants in the third impeachment complaint from religious groups, believes their case will stand on its own. 'If the congressmen believe in what we presented last year, we will not have difficulties in getting support or votes from them because this is not politically motivated. This has substance, it has form,' he said. He urged lawmakers to base their decision on the merits of the complaint and not on political considerations.
Duterte announced her plans on February 18, 2026, although the election is in 2028.
