MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives of the Philippines may secure at least 106 votes to impeach Sara Duterte, with lawmakers indicating support could reach up to 215 signatures, officials and sources said Monday following the approval of the impeachment report by the House justice committee.
Terry Ridon said the House expects to impeach Duterte by the following week, noting that the required one-third vote of 106 out of 318 members is already assured. He said the total number of votes could match or approach the 215 signatures recorded during a previous impeachment effort.
The House committee on justice approved the report containing the articles of impeachment, which is scheduled for plenary debates beginning May 11.
Sources within the chamber said a large number of lawmakers have expressed support for the report. One source said around 200 lawmakers have signified support, while another said additional efforts are needed to reach that number.
At least 55 lawmakers have confirmed support after voting to approve the committee report.
The articles of impeachment include allegations of misuse of confidential funds, bribery, unexplained wealth, and threats against Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Liza Araneta Marcos, and Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.
Ridon also disputed a list circulating online that claimed several lawmakers withdrew support for the impeachment. He questioned the inclusion of a name he said does not correspond to any sitting lawmaker.
Mauricio Domogan denied withdrawing support and said he voted to approve the committee report. An aide to Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon said the lawmaker did not sign the final report due to leave but supported earlier drafts.
Duterte, who was in The Hague at the time, said she was not concerned about the impeachment proceedings. She was visiting her father, Rodrigo Duterte, who is set to face trial before the International Criminal Court.
If convicted in an impeachment trial, Duterte would be removed from office and barred from holding public office in the future.
