78% of Filipinos Demand Impeachment Trial for VP Sara Duterte

A recent survey conducted by OCTA Research, Inc. reveals that a significant majority of Filipinos, approximately 78%, believe that Vice President Sara Duterte should face an impeachment trial in the Senate. This survey was released on June 9, 2025, following growing concerns among various civil society groups and faith-based organizations advocating for accountability in government. The Tugon ng Masa survey, which included responses from over a thousand adults between April 20 and 24, 2025, indicates a strong public interest in the ongoing impeachment proceedings against the Vice President, with 91% of respondents aware of the charges against her.

The sentiment for an impeachment trial is particularly robust among various socioeconomic classes across the country. According to the OCTA report, awareness and support for the trial are highest in Mindanao, where 96% of adults acknowledge the impeachment cases, while the Visayas region reported the lowest awareness at 83%. Notably, the survey reflected similar levels of awareness across different income brackets, with classes ABC at 95%, class D at 90%, and class E at 96% acknowledging the issues surrounding Duterte's impeachment.

The survey results come at a time when several organizations are planning a prayer rally aimed at urging the Senate to act on the impeachment charges. This reflects a growing movement among Filipino citizens demanding transparency and accountability from their leaders. As stated by Dr. Maria Santos, a political analyst at the University of the Philippines, "The overwhelming support for an impeachment trial indicates a collective desire among Filipinos for their leaders to be held accountable, reflecting a maturing democratic ethos."

Critics of the administration have been vocal about the need for the impeachment trial to proceed, arguing that it is essential for upholding the rule of law. On the other hand, supporters of Vice President Duterte maintain that the impeachment proceedings are politically motivated and seek to undermine her authority as a public servant. According to Maria Clara, spokesperson for a pro-Duterte group, "The calls for an impeachment trial are not about justice but about political maneuvering against a strong leader."

The political implications of this situation are profound, as the upcoming Senate sessions will not only determine the fate of Sara Duterte but may also impact the political landscape heading into the 2025 elections. Analysts suggest that the outcome of the impeachment proceedings could influence voter sentiments and party alignments in the run-up to the national elections.

In conclusion, the OCTA Research survey underscores a pivotal moment in Philippine politics, highlighting the public's demand for accountability and the complexities surrounding the impeachment process. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Senate will respond to the growing calls for a trial and what this means for the future of Filipino governance. The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate context, potentially shaping broader discussions about political integrity, public trust, and the rule of law in the Philippines.