Spokesperson Salvador Paolo Panelo Jr. states that discussions about replacing Vice President Sara Duterte during her ongoing impeachment trial are premature and detract from more pressing national issues.
MANILA, Philippines — Conversations regarding the potential replacement of Vice President Sara Duterte amid her ongoing impeachment trial are considered premature and a distraction from pressing national matters, according to her spokesperson, Atty. Salvador Paolo Panelo Jr. On October 29, 2026, Panelo issued a statement emphasizing that the focus should remain on the fairness of the Senate impeachment proceedings, the constitutionality of the conviction threshold, and alleged violations of due process. He expressed concerns about the impartiality of senators acting as impeachment judges, some of whom reportedly face or are threatened with criminal charges such as plunder. Citing a Social Weather Stations survey from late September, Panelo noted that only 28% of Filipinos trust the Senate impeachment court to deliver a fair verdict, underscoring public skepticism.
Panelo criticized the Senate majority’s decision to withdraw certain impeachment articles, describing it as a waste of time and public resources, and contended that Duterte was denied a fair chance to counter some allegations. He argued that replacing the Vice President would not address pressing challenges like rising inflation, Super El Niño threatening food security, a significant economic slowdown to a post-pandemic low of 2.3%, and the peso’s decline to historic lows.
He said the impeachment highlights a focus on political maneuvering rather than addressing issues critical to Filipinos’ welfare. Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro stated President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has not considered replacing the Vice President. Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero have declined potential offers to assume the vice presidency, citing conflicts of interest. Under the Constitution, the President may nominate a new Vice President if the office becomes vacant, subject to congressional confirmation.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1007556/talks-to-replace-vp-sara-duterte-amid-impeachment-trial-premature-spox/story/
