Philippines: Sara Duterte impeachment — 3 charges dropped, ₱818-million wealth allegation remains

The Senate impeachment court in the Philippines has decided to drop three of the four impeachment charges against Vice President Sara Duterte. This leaves only allegations of unexplained wealth, incomplete asset declarations, and prohibited business interests remaining. The charge of alleged misuse and misappropriation of confidential funds, as well as the alleged bribery and corruption involving the Department of Education, have been withdrawn with prejudice, meaning they cannot be brought up again in a future impeachment proceeding against Duterte during her current term.

However, the article concerning alleged unexplained wealth and undeclared assets remains for the impeachment court to assess.

The financial examination of Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases "Mans" Carpio, is centered on the prosecution's claim that the couple has approximately ₱817.87 million in allegedly unexplained wealth and undeclared assets or income between 2022 and 2025. Forensic accounting expert Alexander Cabrera estimated this figure based on various financial records, including bank transactions, tax documents, property records, insurance information, and corporate records. The prosecution also cited a potential higher estimate of around ₱1.5 billion.

Duterte has consistently denied any wrongdoing and challenged the prosecution's claims. Her lead defense counsel, Sheila Sison, objected to the withdrawal of charges, arguing that Duterte should have a chance to rebut the allegations presented publicly. The court has acknowledged the trade-off between the prosecution focusing its case and Duterte's right to answer accusations.

The political implications of the impeachment trial are significant, as Duterte is planning to seek the presidency in 2028. A conviction would remove her from office and disqualify her from holding public office, potentially affecting her political future. Her relationship with former President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who is currently the incumbent, has also deteriorated since they ran together in the 2022 election.