VICE President Sara Duterte has no plans to step down from office amid the ongoing impeachment trial against her, according to her defense spokesperson Michael Poa.
Speaking to reporters, Poa firmly debunked circulating rumors that the vice president would resign before the conclusion of the proceedings. He acknowledged that while resignation is one of the legal options available to any public official, the vice president has never discussed it and remains steadfast in fulfilling her duties.
Poa emphasized that Duterte’s decision to stay in office is rooted in her sense of accountability to the electorate that placed her in power. “She has always considered the 32 million people that voted for her,” he stated, underscoring her commitment to the mandate given to her by millions of Filipinos. The remark signals that she intends to face the charges against her directly and defend herself before the Senate sitting as an impeachment court, rather than abandoning the post she was elected to serve.
The statement comes amid widespread speculation that the vice president might choose to resign as a way to avoid the outcome of the impeachment trial or to spare her family further scrutiny. However, Poa’s remarks make clear that she remains determined to complete her term and clear her name. By invoking the trust of her supporters, Duterte’s camp seeks to frame the trial not only as a legal battle but also as a matter of honoring the will of the voting public.
metrosundaily
