Metro Manila, Philippines – The House of Representatives has authorized the justice committee to conduct impeachment proceedings during the congressional break from March 21 to May 3, in light of the complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte.
The chamber approved House Resolution 892 introduced by House Speaker Bojie Dy, Majority Leader Sandro Marcos, and Minority Leader Marcelito Libanan on Tuesday, March 17.
“Consistent with parliamentary practice and the continuing nature of committee mandate and functions, committees of the House of Representatives may continue the conduct of authorized hearings and the performance of their functions during periods when the House is in recess, subject to the authority of the House,” the resolution read.
The committee was authorized to resolve motions for issuance of subpoenas – including those requiring individuals to testify in person and those compelling the production of documentary evidence.
The House also allowed the justice panel to provide protection to complainants and witnesses should their personal safety be put in jeopardy, in line with the rules of procedure in impeachment proceedings.
A number of lawmakers have urged the committee to secure Ramil Madriaga, Duterte’s alleged bagman, as he may be a key witness in the case. Madriaga is currently detained at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.
“The implementation of appropriate protective measures is therefore necessary to encourage the truthful disclosure of relevant information and preserve the integrity of impeachment proceedings,” the resolution read.
It added that the committee may coordinate with government agencies such as the Department of Justice, the Philippine National Police, and the National Bureau of Investigation and other agencies in carrying out protective measures.
The justice panel will determine the sufficiency in grounds of the complaints against Duterte on Wednesday, March 18, to move to the proper hearing.
READ: Duterte ouster complaints hurdle substance requirement
Committee chairperson and Batangas 2nd district Rep. Jinky Luistro earlier said hearings may commence in April after the Holy Week break.
Duterte is facing two ouster suits for supposed culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, bribery, and other high crimes, over allegations of fund misuse, threats against the presidential family, and unexplained wealth.
The House impeached her in February 2025 over the same grounds, but it was declared by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional based on procedural errors, but not on merits.
