MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte alleged on Thursday that several lawmakers were using her name to raise money in connection with her impeachment case.
Duterte made the statement during an interview in The Hague after being asked about claims by some House members that they had secured enough votes to advance the impeachment complaint to the Senate.
“So, many are making money using my name,” Duterte said. “I wish they would sprinkle their constituents the money in their pockets or suitcases.”
On Wednesday, Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong said the pro-impeachment bloc had secured 180 votes. Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno also said he believed the bloc had enough support.
Terry Ridon said Thursday that at least 215 lawmakers had signified support for Duterte’s impeachment.
Under Article XI, Section 3(3) of the 1987 Constitution, at least 106 votes, or one-third of the House of Representatives, are required to approve the articles of impeachment and transmit them to the Senate.
Members of the House are expected to vote on the impeachment case in plenary on Monday, May 11.
Duterte is currently in the Netherlands visiting her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is detained at the detention facility of the International Criminal Court over a crimes against humanity case linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
Malacañang Palace granted Duterte travel authority from April 23 to May 15 for visits to the Netherlands, South Korea, Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom.
