The impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte are expected to enter a more critical stage on Wednesday, April 22, as the House Committee on Justice continues its formal hearings involving witness testimonies and presentation of evidence.

Lawmakers are now in the evidentiary phase of the process, where allegations against the Vice President are being examined through sworn statements, documents, and cross-examination by both prosecution and defense panels.

During the Day 3 hearing, the following resource persons are scheduled to present reports and documents:

• Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla – expected to present copies of Vice President Sara Duterte’s SALNs
• Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV – expected to present documents regarding alleged unexplained wealth
• Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) representative – to submit reports on alleged “covert and suspicious transactions” involving the Vice President and her husband
• Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) representative – to present the couple’s tax records
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) representative – to present business records linked to the couple

These agencies are expected to provide documentary evidence that lawmakers may use to assess the validity of the impeachment complaints.

Moreover, one of the key developments expected in the April 22 hearing is the continuation of testimony from individuals linked to the complaints. Among those previously called to appear is Ramil Madriaga, a self-proclaimed former associate of the Vice President, whose statements are expected to touch on alleged irregularities involving confidential funds.

His appearance, along with other summoned witnesses, is seen as crucial in strengthening or challenging the allegations presented before the committee.

Defense expected to challenge evidence

Meanwhile, the legal team of the Vice President is expected to question the interpretation and context of the documents, as well as challenge their relevance and admissibility in the impeachment proceedings.

Her camp has consistently denied all allegations, maintaining that the complaints are politically motivated.

No verdict yet, but proceedings intensify

Despite the growing intensity of the hearings, no decision on removal or conviction will be made at this stage. The House committee is still in the process of building its report, which will determine whether the case will be elevated to the Senate for a formal impeachment trial.

Under the Philippine Constitution, only the Senate has the authority to try and decide impeachment cases, requiring a two-thirds vote for conviction.

What comes next

If the committee finds sufficient grounds, it may recommend the filing of Articles of Impeachment to the Senate.

This would formally trigger a national impeachment trial, where senators will act as judges.

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