In a political earthquake that rocked the Philippines, the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte has emerged as the decisive factor behind the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas’ stunning losses in the 2025 midterm elections. Described as a “self-inflicted wound” by campaign manager Tobias Tiangco, the impeachment not only fractured the administration’s unity but also solidified opposition in key regions like Mindanao, where votes slipped through their fingers like sand.
A Costly Misstep in Mindanao
“Once the impeachment complaint was filed and passed at the House, I saw that Mindanao had solidified against us,” Tiangco revealed in a candid radio interview. “People changed the way they chose their candidates, and they chose those who would not vote for impeachment.” This shift, he said, was a direct result of the administration’s decision to push forward with the impeachment, despite warnings that it would backfire.
The impeachment, approved by over 200 House members on February 5, 2025, accuses Duterte of serious offenses: culpable violation of the Constitution, bribery, graft, corruption, and even a conspiracy to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Allegations also include the misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds from her time as Education Secretary and unexplained wealth. Yet, Tiangco, an administration ally, refused to sign the articles, calling the move “self-inflicted” and avoidable. “Why did they force the impeachment when I told them that nothing would come of it? The Senate won’t take it up until June 2,” he said, his frustration palpable.
Political Fallout and Electoral Impact
The ripple effects of the impeachment extended beyond the ballot box. Local candidates allied with the administration found themselves targeted by rivals who campaigned fiercely against anyone connected to Alyansa. Tiangco noted that the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Sara’s father, may have further fueled the backlash, though its impact was less clear. Senate President Francis Escudero, who will preside over the impeachment trial, acknowledged the political storm. “The impeachment and Duterte’s arrest had significant repercussions on the results of the midterm elections,” he said in a media forum, emphasizing that senators must act as impartial judges.
The decision to avoid campaigning in Mindanao was strategic but costly. “I knew there was a problem in Mindanao,” Tiangco admitted. “We concentrated on areas where we could get votes.” This left candidates to fend for themselves, unable to leverage the administration’s collective strength. The result? A fractured campaign and a weakened showing in a region critical to electoral success.
The Trial Ahead: High Stakes and High-Profile Prosecutors
The Senate trial, set to commence on July 3, 2025, unless halted by the Supreme Court, will be a historic moment—the first time a Philippine vice president faces impeachment. Duterte has already filed legal challenges to block the proceedings, arguing they constitute “political persecution,” as her brother Paolo Duterte claimed in a BBC report. The trial’s outcome could bar her from public office, derailing her widely discussed ambitions for the 2028 presidential race.
Adding gravitas to the proceedings are prosecutors Leila de Lima and Chel Diokno, both renowned human rights lawyers. House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong praised their inclusion, saying, “With De Lima and Diokno, we see the convergence of moral clarity and legal precision.” Diokno, a leading figure in the Akbayan party, brings decades of experience defending human rights, while De Lima, a former justice secretary, adds a seasoned perspective. “Their presence assures the public that this trial is about truth, not theatrics,” Adiong said, as reported by Rappler.
Marcos’ Neutral Stance and Public Sentiment
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., once Duterte’s ally in the 2022 UniTeam alliance, has vowed to stay out of the fray. “The President will not interfere in whatever happens there,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated in an AP News report. “Let’s just see who should be held accountable, who should be acquitted. We are all for the rule of law.” Marcos’ stance underscores the administration’s commitment to letting the legal process unfold, even as it faces internal divisions.
Tiangco, however, pointed out a lack of public clamor for Duterte’s impeachment, suggesting the move was driven more by political maneuvering than grassroots demand. This disconnect may have amplified voter backlash, particularly in regions loyal to the Duterte family.
A Nation Divided, A Future Uncertain
Duterte herself is bracing for the fight. “I am ready for whatever the result of my impending impeachment trial will be,” she declared, signaling her resolve to face the charges head-on, as noted in an ABS-CBN News report. Her defiance, coupled with legal challenges filed with the Supreme Court, suggests a protracted battle that could further polarize the nation.
As the Philippines awaits the trial, the political landscape remains fractured. The impeachment has tested the administration’s cohesion, alienated key voter bases, and set the stage for a historic trial that could reshape the country’s future. With the 2028 presidential elections on the horizon, the stakes are monumental—not just for Duterte, but for the entire nation.
Key Data Points
Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
Impeachment Approval | February 5, 2025, by over 200 House members |
Charges | Misuse of P612.5M in funds, bribery, corruption, assassination conspiracy |
Trial Start | July 3, 2025, unless halted by Supreme Court |
Prosecutors | Leila de Lima, Chel Diokno |
Electoral Impact | Significant losses for Alyansa in Mindanao during 2025 midterm elections |
Marcos’ Stance | Non-interference, commitment to rule of law |
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