Sara Duterte faces Senate impeachment as she shifts stance on endorsements

Vice President Sara Duterte has reportedly entered 'survival mode' as she faces an impending Senate impeachment trial.

House representatives Paolo Ortega V from La Union and Zia Alonto Adiong from Lanao del Sur commented on her recent change in stance regarding endorsements for the 2025 midterm elections, noting that her shift signals a bid to shore up support among senators.

Despite previously stating that she would not endorse any senatorial candidates, Duterte has recently lent support to at least two individuals running for Senate, including Senator Maria Imelda 'Imee' Marcos and Las Piñas Rep. Camille A. Villar.

Ortega emphasized the importance of consistency in public officials' actions and urged the Senate to conduct a fair trial without political influence, while Adiong noted that Duterte's shift from neutrality to active endorsement raises questions about timing and strategic motivations.

The Senate is set to convene as an impeachment court on July 30, once newly elected senators take their oath as impeachment judges, with trial rules approved on June 2.

Both representatives stressed the need for the Senate to demonstrate impartiality and institutional independence during the impeachment proceedings, highlighting the importance of democratic institutions in delivering a verdict based on truth and constitutional duty.