Supreme Court Ruling Declares VP Duterte’s Impeachment Case Invalid

Manila, Philippines – July 2025

The Supreme Court ruling on July 21 has declared the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte null and void, stating that it violates the Constitution’s one-year rule. The decision has sparked debates and calls for further legal actions, with the House of Representatives planning to appeal the ruling.

The Supreme Court Ruling

The Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the impeachment complaint filed against Duterte did not comply with Article XI, Section 3 of the Constitution, which states that no official can be subjected to multiple impeachment proceedings within a single year.

The Court concluded that the case was the fourth impeachment complaint filed against VP Duterte, which made it unconstitutional.

Escudero’s Stance on the Ruling

Senator Francis Escudero, the leader of the Philippine Senate, agreed with the Supreme Court’s decision, stating that the ruling should be followed.

Escudero warned that failing to comply with the decision could lead to a constitutional crisis, stressing the importance of adhering to the rule of law.

Impact on VP Duterte’s Political Future

The Supreme Court ruling is a major win for Vice President Duterte, as it dismisses the impeachment case against her.

This decision clears the path for her to remain in office and pursue her political ambitions, including potentially running for president in the 2028 elections. Without the risk of an impeachment trial, her position remains secure.

House of Representatives’ Plans to Appeal

Despite the Supreme Court ruling, the House of Representatives intends to appeal the decision. According to House members, the impeachment followed constitutional guidelines, and they believe the ruling should be reconsidered.

Next Steps and Senate Discussions

The Philippine Senate is expected to discuss the Supreme Court ruling on August 6, where senators will review the Court’s decision and its implications. The Senate will decide whether the impeachment trial should proceed or be officially dropped.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court ruling is a pivotal moment in the ongoing political battle involving Vice President Sara Duterte. The ruling could influence her political future and the government’s approach to handling impeachment cases in the future. With the House of Representatives planning to appeal, this issue is far from settled.

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References:

1. Philippine Senate Chief Favors Dropping VP Duterte’s Impeachment Case.
2. Dismissing impeachment complaint or proceeding to trial: A win-win for VP Duterte.
3. Hontiveros, Aquino, Pangilinan urge SC to reconsider decision blocking VP Duterte’s impeachment trial.