HOUSE impeachment prosecutor and Rep. Jil Bongalon of Ako Bicol Party-list on Monday declared that the recent survey results underscore the necessity of proceeding with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, reflecting the populace’s demand for accountability.
“The survey results are a clear indication that the Filipino people are calling for justice and transparency. As representatives of the people, it is our duty to heed this call and ensure that the impeachment process moves forward,” Bongalon, a House Majority Leader, stated.
A Tangere survey conducted from Feb. 10 to 12, 2025, revealed that 73% of Filipinos believe VP Duterte should face a Senate impeachment trial over allegations of plotting to assassinate President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
“Ang malinaw dito, nais ng ating mga kababayan na managot ang sinumang lumalabag sa batas, kahit pa ito’y isa sa pinakamataas na opisyal ng bansa,” Bongalon added.
The impeachment complaint, endorsed by 215 members of the House of Representatives, accuses VP Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption and other high crimes.
“With such overwhelming support from both the public and our fellow lawmakers, it is imperative that the Senate constitutes itself as an impeachment court to address these serious allegations,” Bongalon said.
The survey further indicated that 51% of respondents support the impeachment complaint filed by Congress, while 53% agree that VP Duterte should be tried for the alleged misuse of confidential funds in the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education (DepEd).
“These figures reflect a significant portion of our population demanding transparency and accountability in the use of public funds,” Bongalon noted.
Additionally, 51% of those surveyed believe that VP Duterte should stand trial for unexplained wealth and inaccuracies in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).
“Ang ating mga kababayan ay naghahangad ng malinaw na paliwanag ukol sa mga isyung ito. Hindi natin sila dapat biguin,” Bongalon emphasized.
As the impeachment process advances to the Senate, Bongalon called on senators to respect the will of the people and fulfill their constitutional duty by convening as an impeachment court promptly.
“The House has acted decisively in response to our constituents’ clamor for justice. It is now incumbent upon the Senate to do the same and ensure a fair and impartial trial,” he stated.
Bongalon also highlighted the importance of upholding democratic principles.
“This impeachment process is not just about one individual; it is about preserving the integrity of our institutions and reinforcing the rule of law.”
