Students flocked in front of the Supreme Court on Monday, July 28, to protest the dismissal of the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s scheduled State of the Nation Address (SONA) today, students from the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) called for justice, expressing concern over what they see as the Vice President's continued freedom despite pending allegations.
"Ang tunay pong unconstitutional ay yung ginawa ng Supreme Court," one of the protest leaders said during the rally.
They also cited the ₱612.5 million confidential fund of the Vice President as the main reason for their protest. They emphasized the severe hardship of Filipinos, widespread flooding, lack of social services, and rising inflation.
"CONVICT Sara now!," students said.
Meanwhile, a group of police officers stood by to monitor the protest.
It can be recalled that last Friday, the Supreme Court ruled the impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte as unconstitutional. The Court cited the one-year bar rule under Article XI, Section 3(5) of the 1987 Constitution. The Court also said the complaint violated Duterte’s right to due process under the Bill of Rights.
However, the Supreme Court clarified that its ruling does not absolve Duterte of the allegations. A new impeachment complaint may be filed only after February 6, 2026.
The Court also emphasized its impartiality, stating that it is not its role to favor any political outcome.
Meanwhile, the defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte has welcomed the Supreme Court's decision.
