Lawmakers are focused on determining whether the hearings against Vice President Sara Duterte will provide sufficient grounds to proceed, with a decision expected by April 29. Source: National Historical Commission of the Philippines

This phase marks the first time that documents and witnesses are being formally presented, signaling a deeper scrutiny of the allegations filed against the vice president. Officials from major government agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation, Commission on Audit, Bureau of Internal Revenue, and the Office of the Ombudsman, are expected to participate in the hearings.

Their involvement highlights the institutional weight behind the investigation as lawmakers assess whether sufficient grounds exist to move forward. Lawmakers are currently focused on determining whether there is probable cause to proceed, with hearings expected to conclude by April 29.

Confidential Funds Controversy Draws Intense Scrutiny

At the center of the impeachment case is the controversial use of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President in 2022. The Commission on Audit upheld its earlier decision to disallow P73.28 million in expenditures, citing insufficient documentation and irregularities.

"These funds formed part of a P125 million confidential budget that was reportedly spent within a short period, raising concerns and fueling allegations of misuse."

Duterte argued that her right to due process was violated because auditors did not issue an audit observation memorandum before the notice of disallowance. However, state auditors rejected this claim, explaining that such a step is not required before flagging questionable transactions.

The disallowed expenses included large allocations for rewards and purchases of office equipment. These funds formed part of a P125 million confidential budget that was reportedly spent within a short period, raising concerns and fueling allegations of misuse.

Testimony of Former Aide Becomes Focal Point

A major development in the hearings is the testimony of Duterte’s former aide, Ramil Madriaga. He claimed that he was instructed to distribute large sums of cash in duffel bags to multiple locations, including areas in Laguna and Quezon City.

"The dispute has intensified calls for stronger documentary evidence to support or refute the claims."

Madriaga alleged that the full P125 million confidential fund was disbursed in just one day. His testimony has drawn significant attention, with some lawmakers viewing it as a key piece in understanding how the funds were handled.

However, his statements have been challenged by former security official Raymund Dante Lachica, who cited inconsistencies across Madriaga’s affidavits and testimony. The dispute has intensified calls for stronger documentary evidence to support or refute the claims.

Lawmakers Cite Emerging Evidence of Probable Cause

Some lawmakers believe the proceedings have already produced enough evidence to suggest probable cause, pointing to the audit findings and witness testimonies as key indicators of potential wrongdoing.

"Investigations by the National Bureau of Investigation revealed irregularities in acknowledgment receipts tied to confidential fund disbursements."

Investigations by the National Bureau of Investigation revealed irregularities in acknowledgment receipts tied to confidential fund disbursements. Findings suggested that several signatures may have been written by the same individuals, while other listed recipients could not be verified in official records.

These developments are expected to weigh heavily on the committee’s final recommendation as it prepares its report for the plenary.

Potential Impact On Presidential Ambitions and Regional Dynamics

The impeachment proceedings come at a politically sensitive time, as Duterte positions herself for a possible presidential run in 2028. The case has heightened tensions within the Philippine political landscape and could influence alliances and voter perceptions ahead of the elections.

The implications of the impeachment extend beyond national politics, particularly to regions like Sulu. If her political influence is weakened by the impeachment process, it could alter leadership dynamics in Mindanao and among Tausug communities. Supporters in Sulu who see her as a representative of regional interests may reconsider their political alignments.

"For Sulu, where economic development and stability remain urgent concerns, the outcome of the impeachment could influence both local political direction and broader regional policy focus."

At the same time, a prolonged focus on governance and accountability issues may shift national priorities away from regional issues. For Sulu, where economic development and stability remain urgent concerns, the outcome of the impeachment could influence both local political direction and broader regional policy focus.

Once the House committee completes its hearings, the case may advance to a Senate trial if lawmakers vote to proceed. Such a development would mark a major turning point in the country’s political trajectory.

REFERENCES

Inquirer. (2026, April 20). House panel eyes April 29 wrap on impeachment hearings. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net

Inquirer. (2026, April 16). Sara Duterte claims COA denied due process in secret fund disallowance. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net

Inquirer. (2026, April 16). Sara Duterte’s ex-security chief hits Madriaga’s inconsistencies. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net

Inquirer. (2026, April 15). Ridon: Probable cause on Sara Duterte secret fund issue already established. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net

Inquirer. (2026, February 23). Impeachment-initiated raps vs Duterte sent to House justice panel. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net

Know Sulu. (2026, February 20). Sara Duterte runs for president with Sabah dispute hanging in balance. Know Sulu. https://www.know-sulu.ph