By Filane Mikee Cervantes | February 12, 2025

MANILA – Leaders of the House of Representatives on Wednesday said the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) recommendation to file charges against Vice President Sara Duterte would strengthen the impeachment case against her.

In a statement, Deputy Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega said the NBI’s findings reinforce the need for a thorough impeachment trial.

“The charges recommended by the NBI are serious and warrant a comprehensive examination during the impeachment process,” Ortega said.

The impeachment complaint against Duterte includes allegations of corruption, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes.

Ortega said the NBI’s recommendation is a “crucial step” in upholding the Constitution and ensuring that violations are properly addressed.

“Tungkulin natin na pangalagaan ang ating Saligang Batas at tiyakin na ang anumang paglabag ay nararapat na maparusahan. Mahalaga ang naging hakbang ng NBI sa prosesong ito (It is our duty to protect the Constitution and ensure that any violation is appropriately punished. The NBI’s step in this process is significant),” he said.

House Assistant Majority Leader and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon said the NBI’s findings support allegations that Duterte made threats against President Marcos and other officials.

“This is a positive development, especially in relation to the impeachment case filed against the Vice President,” Bongalon said. “It strengthens our position that the Vice President committed criminal acts such as grave threats and inciting to sedition.”

House Assistant Majority Leader and Manila Rep. Ernix Dionisio said the NBI’s move underscores the importance of accountability at the highest levels of government.

“Our leaders must uphold the law and maintain the trust of the people. Ang rekomendasyon ng NBI ay nagpapakita ng bigat ng mga paratang laban kay VP Duterte. Dapat lamang na managot ang sinumang posibleng lumalabag sa batas, lalo na ang mga nasa mataas na posisyon (The NBI’s recommendation highlights the weight of the allegations against VP Duterte. Anyone who possibly violates the law, especially those in high office, must be held accountable),” Dionisio said.

Dionisio added that the evidence presented must be scrutinized meticulously to ensure that the “truth prevails.”

“This is a pivotal moment for our nation’s commitment to justice and the rule of law,” Dionisio said. (PNA)

TOP PHOTO: IMPEACHMENT DOCUMENTS. Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. (left) receives the documents containing the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte from House of Representatives Secretary General Reginald Velasco on Feb. 5, 2025. (Senate photo)