Vice President Sara Duterte has consistently missed House of Representatives hearings regarding the impeachment complaints against her. As the process unfolded, her absence raised questions about her engagement with the proceedings.
Duterte missed the first hearing on March 25, 2026, when the House justice committee began discussions on impeachment ground rules. Instead of attending, she delivered a keynote speech at the John Paul Benedict School in Bulacan.
The second hearing on April 14 featured explosive testimonies, including claims from Ramil Madriaga, who alleged he helped Duterte manage P125 million in confidential funds. Once again, Duterte was absent, reportedly celebrating her mother's birthday in Davao City.
During the third hearing on April 22, which focused on her alleged unexplained wealth, Duterte was also missing. While her seat remained vacant, she was active on social media, advising followers not to believe false claims about her office distributing gifts.
On April 29, the committee voted unanimously to establish probable cause for impeachment against her. Although legislators noted she was at a shopping mall in San Pedro, Laguna, Duterte shared photos on social media from an exhibit she attended.
By May 4, the committee finalized its impeachment report, which garnered overwhelming support from lawmakers. On the same day, Duterte was spotted in The Hague, Netherlands, where her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces charges related to crimes against humanity.
On May 11, the House voted to impeach her, a historic moment as it marked her second impeachment. During this critical day, Duterte shared a nostalgic post about her recent visit to the National Museum, still in The Hague at the time.
Public Reaction and Future Implications
Duterte's repeated absences from such significant hearings have drawn mixed reactions from the public and political analysts alike. Many are questioning her commitment to addressing the serious allegations against her as she prepares for a Senate trial.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how her absence will influence public opinion and her political future.