De Lima says House can fast-track VP Duterte's impeachment

Former Senator Leila de Lima stated that the House of Representatives can fast-track the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte if they choose to prioritize it.

Despite time constraints due to the upcoming 2025 midterm elections, De Lima believes that the process could be expedited with determination.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco noted that the full impeachment proceeding will take at least 130 days, including deliberation periods for specific committees, but a faster route is possible if one-third of House members support it.

De Lima emphasized that the House does not need to wait for the initial 10-day period to conduct an impeachment trial and can proceed directly to the Senate if supported by at least one-third of its members.

Constitutional law experts suggest that while a new House after the elections might be more appropriate, the current House has the legal authority to fast-track proceedings if it chooses to do so.