Sara Duterte impeachment trial begins, setting stage for 2028 Philippines election

The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte commenced Monday, setting the stage for the 2028 presidential election and highlighting a deep rift between two powerful political dynasties. The proceedings are expected to significantly influence the nation's political landscape and test public trust in its institutions.

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If it is seen as politically motivated or lacking credibility, questions may linger regardless of the outcome.

Analysts suggest the credibility of the trial's outcome will be paramount. "If it is seen as politically motivated or lacking credibility, questions may linger regardless of the outcome,” said Ederson Tapia, a public administration professor at the University of Makati. He added that a fair process, whether resulting in acquittal or conviction, could bolster or jeopardize Duterte's presidential ambitions, respectively.

Duterte, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces allegations of misusing public funds, accumulating unexplained wealth, and threatening President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. She denies the charges, asserting the impeachment is politically driven. "That is to be expected," responded Congressman Robert "Ace" Barbers, spokesperson for the prosecution. "We will let the evidence speak for itself."

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That is to be expected. We will let the evidence speak for itself.

Political science professor Jean Encinas-Franco stressed the importance of allowing both prosecution and defense adequate time and voice to ensure public confidence. She recalled the 2001 impeachment of President Joseph Estrada, where a Senate vote to withhold evidence led to public outrage and mass protests. "They really have to make sure that both the prosecution and the defence are given enough time and voice … so the public does not perceive the trial as favouring one side,” she advised.

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They really have to make sure that both the prosecution and the defence are given enough time and voice … so the public does not perceive the trial as favouring one side.

Duterte's lawyer, Michael Poa, stated the defense is prepared to prove the allegations are "baseless." The duration of the trial remains uncertain, potentially influenced by procedural disputes, witness numbers, and evidence presentation, drawing parallels to the four-month impeachment trial of a former chief justice in 2012. A conviction requires at least 16 of the Senate's 24 members to vote in favor.

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