Discussions surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment are increasingly affected by misinformation, according to Manila Representative Joel Chua. He expressed concern that deceptive narratives could alter public perception of the impeachment process.
Chua indicated that the operation behind these misleading reports might have cost millions to maintain, as he described efforts by online trolls to propagate 'fake news.'
With legitimate news fading and fake news dominating, our thinking is at risk of being shaped by falsehoods.
Joel Chua
He urged the public to critically evaluate the information they encounter, stating, "That’s why we shouldn’t immediately believe everything we read. We need to be discerning and also check what is true."
Duterte is facing potential impeachment amid allegations of corruption and constitutional violations. At least 106 lawmakers must endorse the charges before they can move to the Senate, which would act as the impeachment court.
To convict her, a two-thirds majority, or 16 votes, is required in the Senate. If found guilty, Duterte could be removed from office and barred from holding public office in the future.
The impeachment case includes several serious charges, such as misuse of office funds and involvement in bribery and corruption schemes.
Chua noted that some lawmakers have faced backlash from their constituents for supporting the impeachment motion against Duterte, a popular political figure.
Since the Dutertes were very popular, many of his constituents got angry at him. But after the committee hearing, when everything came out, they understood why he acted that way.
Joel Chua
As the impeachment process unfolds, Duterte is also seen as a strong candidate for the presidency in 2028, having declared her intentions shortly after new complaints surfaced.