Manila: Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon, one of the House of Representatives' impeachment prosecutors, on Monday viewed the recent Tangere survey results as a validation of an "overwhelming" need to proceed with Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. The lawmaker said the survey reflects the populace's demand for accountability.
According to Philippines News Agency, the survey results are a clear indication that the Filipino people are calling for justice and transparency. As representatives of the people, it is our duty to heed this call and ensure that the impeachment process moves forward, Bongalon, also a House Majority leader, stated.
A Tangere survey, conducted from February 10 to 12, 2025, revealed that 73 percent of Filipinos believe Duterte should face a Senate impeachment trial over allegations of plotting to assassinate President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.
Bongalon emphasized that the public desires accountability for anyone who violates the law, even if it is among the highest-ranking officials in the country. The impeachment complaint, endorsed by 215 members of the House of Representatives, accuses Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, and other high crimes.
With substantial support from the public and fellow lawmakers, Bongalon stressed the importance of the Senate constituting itself as an impeachment court to address these serious allegations. The survey indicated that 51 percent of respondents support the impeachment complaint filed by Congress, while 53 percent agree that Duterte should be tried for the alleged misuse of confidential funds from the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, which she previously headed.
These figures reflect a significant portion of the population demanding transparency and accountability in the use of public funds, Bongalon noted. On February 5, the impeachment documents were transmitted to the Senate and received by the Senate Secretariat before the session adjourned. Bongalon urged senators to respect the will of the people and fulfill their constitutional duty by convening as an impeachment court promptly.
The House has acted decisively in response to constituents' clamor for justice. It is now incumbent upon the Senate to do the same and ensure a fair and impartial trial. Earlier, Senate President Francis Escudero ruled out any impeachment proceedings during Congress' adjournment, citing legal and procedural constraints that must first be addressed before the Senate can act on any complaint.
