Sara Duterte rejects resignation speculations amid impeachment trial

Vice President Sara Duterte dismissed speculation about her resignation amid her impending impeachment trial on Friday, February 7.

When asked by reporters if she would consider stepping down, Duterte responded that it was too early to discuss such matters and emphasized that she is still considering running for president in 2028.

Lawyers have differing opinions on the implications of a potential resignation. Former senior associate justice Antonio Carpio believes that resigning before trial could prevent any disqualification from holding future office, while constitutional law professor Antonio La Viña argues that the Senate may still proceed with the trial even if Duterte resigns.

Constitutional law expert Paolo Tamase suggests that continuing the impeachment trial after a resignation is necessary to ensure accountability and assess whether she should be barred from holding public office in the future.

Another route to disqualify Duterte permanently involves filing criminal charges, though this could take longer and may not result in a conviction by 2028.