Vice President Sara Duterte is not required to attend the impeachment proceedings filed against her, as her participation is considered optional, the House Committee on Justice confirmed.

House Justice Committee Chair Gerville Luistro of Batangas emphasized that while VP Duterte’s attendance is part of her due process rights, the committee cannot compel her to appear, and any decision she makes regarding participation will be fully respected.

The committee, composed of 55 members including ex officio members, requires 28 votes to formally proceed with hearings that determine the existence of probable cause. During the proceedings, complainants are allowed to present witnesses and documentary evidence in what Luistro described as a “mini hearing.”

This phase serves to review affidavits, testimonies, and evidence to decide whether the complaint can move forward to the Senate, which would then act as the impeachment court.

Legal experts note that even if VP Duterte chooses not to attend, her legal team can still submit evidence and arguments, ensuring that her rights are protected under due process. Meanwhile, observers point out that the committee’s review process is a critical step in determining whether the case has sufficient grounds to advance, making the mini hearing an essential part of the impeachment procedure.

The optional nature of her attendance has sparked discussion among political analysts about how her participation—or absence—could influence public perception and the pace of the proceedings.

As the House Justice Committee prepares for the formal evaluation, all eyes are on the presentation of evidence and whether the committee will vote to forward the case to the Senate for trial.