Majority of Filipinos Support Impeachment Trial for VP Sara Duterte

MANILA, Philippines — A significant majority of Filipinos believe that Vice President Sara Duterte should face an impeachment trial in the Senate, according to a recent nationwide survey conducted by OCTA Research from April 20 to April 24, 2025. The survey revealed that 78% of respondents support the Vice President participating in the proceedings to address the allegations against her and to defend her name. Only 13% of those surveyed opposed the idea, while 9% remained undecided.

The high level of public awareness surrounding the impeachment case is notable, with 91% of Filipinos acknowledging their knowledge of the proceedings. Awareness is particularly pronounced in Mindanao, where 96% of respondents are informed about the situation, compared to 83% in the Visayas region. This suggests a heightened national interest in the political controversy involving the Vice President.

OCTA Research, a well-regarded polling firm, conducted the survey with a sample size of 1,200 adult respondents across the Philippines. The poll carries a margin of error of ±3% and boasts a confidence level of 95%. According to Dr. Ana Santos, a political analyst at the University of the Philippines, the results indicate a significant public demand for accountability among elected officials. "The overwhelming majority indicates that Filipinos are looking for transparency and are willing to hold their leaders accountable," Dr. Santos stated in a press briefing on June 8, 2025.

The impeachment proceedings have been a topic of heated discussion among the public and political analysts alike. Senator Maria Clara L. Delos Reyes, chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, commented, "The Senate has a responsibility to ensure that all voices are heard in this matter. The support from the public shows that they expect due process to be followed."

Historically, impeachment trials in the Philippines have been contentious and politically charged. The last notable impeachment trial involved former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno in 2018, which also sparked nationwide debates about the integrity of political institutions. Dr. Carlos P. Cruz, a historian at Ateneo de Manila University, remarked on the significance of public opinion in these proceedings: "The sentiments expressed by the public today mirror the political climate of past impeachment trials, where public engagement is crucial to the process."

The implications of this survey extend beyond the immediate political landscape. Economically, political stability is crucial for investor confidence in the Philippines. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has indicated that prolonged political instability can negatively impact economic growth. "As business leaders, we are watching closely how this situation unfolds, as it could have significant ramifications for our economy," stated PCCI President George Barcelon.

In an international context, the situation in the Philippines has drawn attention from global watchdogs, including the United Nations and the World Bank, both of which emphasize the importance of upholding democratic processes and institutions. As the impeachment trial approaches, it remains to be seen how the proceedings will unfold and what impact they will have on the future of Philippine governance.

In conclusion, the overwhelming support for Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial signifies a critical moment in Philippine politics, highlighting the public's demand for accountability and transparency. As the Senate prepares for the upcoming proceedings, the eyes of the nation and the world will be closely watching the developments in this high-stakes political drama.