The Impeachment of VP Sara Duterte: A Test of Democracy, A Call to Vigilance

In the ever-turbulent landscape of Philippine politics, headlines are once again ablaze—this time with the impeachment complaint filed against Vice President Sara Duterte. For some, it comes as a political reckoning; for others, an orchestrated move amid the growing friction between the Marcos and Duterte camps. But for every Filipino citizen, this is more than just a power play—it is a litmus test of our democracy, our vigilance, and our national maturity.

Understanding the Impeachment Complaint

The complaint, filed by critics and supported by some House allies of the current administration, alleges that VP Sara Duterte committed "culpable violation of the Constitution" and "betrayal of public trust"—common legal grounds for impeachment. While details vary depending on political narratives, what is clear is this: the move did not emerge in a vacuum.

Behind the legal jargon are layers of political tension:

• Her resignation from the Department of Education shocked many and was followed by silence from Malacañang.

• The Marcos-Duterte alliance, once strong during the 2022 elections, is visibly fractured, with both camps now operating as political rivals.

• Her stronghold in Mindanao and unwavering popularity among certain sectors pose a potential 2028 threat to other presidential aspirants.

Thus, the question arises: Is this impeachment driven by accountability or by political expediency?

What’s at Stake?

1. Democratic Precedent
   If the impeachment progresses based on thin or politicized grounds, it sets a dangerous precedent. The removal of elected officials should be a solemn process—grounded in truth, not in grudges.

2. Political Retaliation or Real Reform?
   Many citizens are wondering: Where was the same energy when officials mishandled funds, neglected agricultural reforms, or oversaw inflation spikes? Why is a vice president now being targeted while others escape scrutiny?

3. Division vs. Unity
   The impeachment may deepen national division, reviving north vs. south narratives, and creating an “us vs. them” atmosphere when Filipinos should be united in addressing inflation, poverty, and climate issues.

4. The People’s Voice
   VP Sara, like all elected leaders, was chosen by the people. Let us not forget: removing her would override 32 million votes unless due process is fully and transparently followed.

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A Call to All Filipinos

Dear fellow Filipinos, this moment in history is not just about Sara Duterte—it is about you. It is about us. Our democracy is not something we can afford to be passive about. We must:

• Stay informed. Don’t just believe viral posts. Read, verify, and question.

• Engage constructively. Whether you support or oppose VP Sara, voice your opinion with respect and facts.

• Watch your leaders. Hold all politicians accountable, not just the ones media targets.

• Remember our power. The people are the highest power in a democracy—not Congress, not the Palace, not the elites.

Let This Moment Be a Mirror

The impeachment of VP Sara Duterte is a mirror—reflecting the kind of nation we are and the kind of people we choose to be. We can allow ourselves to be distracted by political games, or we can rise to the occasion and become a more discerning, engaged, and empowered citizenry.

Let us pray, not just for our leaders—but for clarity, courage, and unity as a people.

#BantayDemokrasya #WeThePeople #RiseAbovePolitics #Philippines2025

From Build, Build, Build to Build Better More: A Closer Look at Duterte vs. Marcos Jr.'s Governance

Leadership transitions shape the destiny of a nation—and in the Philippines, the change from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has marked a shift in tone, policy, and governance style. This blog aims to dissect and critically assess key differences and continuities in infrastructure, OFW welfare, and political posture between the two administrations.

1. Infrastructure Development: “Build, Build, Build” vs. “Build Better More”

Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” (BBB)

Under Duterte’s administration (2016–2022), infrastructure became the flagship strategy for economic growth. With a budget exceeding ₱8 trillion, the BBB program aimed to transform Philippine transportation, bridges, roads, and flood control.

• Key accomplishments:

  • Over 6,000 km of roads, 2,000 bridges, 233 airport projects, and 484 seaport projects were completed under his term (as reported by the Department of Public Works and Highways).

  • Notable projects: Mactan-Cebu Expressway, Skyway Stage 3, LRT-2 East Extension, and Clark International Airport expansion.

• Criticisms:

  • Some key projects were delayed or unfinished.

  • Accusations of “overpromising,” especially regarding foreign-funded infrastructure from China.

  • However, tangible outputs in terms of roads, bridges, and transport hubs were evident.

Marcos Jr.’s “Build Better More” (BBM)

President Marcos Jr. rebranded BBB into "Build Better More," pledging continuity and improvement. His approach includes digital infrastructure, agriculture modernization, and climate-resilient structures.

• Key points:

  • As of mid-2025, flagship projects under BBM remain mostly planned or in early stages.

  • Focus has shifted to Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), with foreign investors eyed to fund key projects.

  • Notable promise: North-South Commuter Railway and Digital Health infrastructure.

• Critical View:

  • As of July 2025, there are few completed projects directly credited to Marcos Jr. despite three years in office.

  • Many infrastructures inaugurated under his name were already started or conceptualized during the Duterte or even Aquino era.

  • BBM remains more rhetoric than result thus far.

Bottom Line: Duterte built more, while Marcos Jr. plans more—a distinction that is critical when comparing outcomes versus vision.

2. OFW Welfare: Proactive Rescue vs. Hands-Off Approach

Duterte Era:

• Known as the "OFW President", Duterte consistently prioritized Overseas Filipino Workers.

• High-profile interventions included:

  • Saving Mary Jane Veloso (alleged drug mule in Indonesia) from execution.

  • Repatriation and legal assistance to distressed OFWs in Kuwait and the Middle East.

  • Created the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to consolidate OFW services.

  • Personal calls and diplomatic lobbying were common in saving OFWs from harsh penalties abroad.

Marcos Jr. Era:

• The DMW continues under his administration, now led by Sec. Hans Leo Cacdac.

• However, Marcos Jr. has taken a non-interventionist stance in judicial matters involving OFWs.

  • In some high-profile cases (e.g., OFWs sentenced abroad), the President emphasized “respect for the host country's laws” rather than direct intervention.

  • This hands-off approach has sparked criticism from migrant worker groups, accusing the administration of lack of urgency or compassion.

• Additionally, welfare and repatriation support have reportedly declined in efficiency compared to the Duterte period.

Bottom Line: Duterte personally intervened for OFWs’ protection. Marcos Jr. relies on institutional processes, even at the cost of human diplomacy.

3. Governance & Political Handling

Duterte:

• Despite political differences, Duterte blocked any attempt to impeach then Vice President Leni Robredo.

  • He publicly said, “She was elected. Let her be.”

• Maintained a strongman image but at times showed strategic restraint when national unity was at stake.

Marcos Jr.:

• Under his term, VP Sara Duterte is now facing impeachment threats, and while PBBM says the process is "constitutional," his allies are seen as leading the charge in Congress.

• Critics point out that the President’s non-committal stance appears passive-aggressive, especially given the political nature of the move.

Bottom Line: Duterte protected political rivals, Marcos Jr. seems tolerant of moves against his own vice president—a reversal in political decency and restraint.

4. Foreign Policy

• Duterte realigned with China and Russia, often at odds with U.S. policies, while pursuing an "independent foreign policy."

  • This approach resulted in economic pledges, though some were unfulfilled.

• Marcos Jr. pivoted back to the U.S. and Japan, strengthening ties through joint military exercises and defense agreements (e.g., EDCA expansion).

  • His assertive stance on the West Philippine Sea wins praise from Western allies but increases regional tension with China.

5. Inflation and Food Security

• Duterte’s administration managed relatively stable inflation, averaging 2.6% in his early term but rising during the pandemic.

• Under Marcos Jr., inflation has become more volatile.

  • Rice prices surged despite promises of ₱20/kg rice.

  • As concurrent Agriculture Secretary in his first year, Marcos faced public backlash for failing to stabilize food supply chains.

Conclusion:

The comparison between Duterte and Marcos Jr. reveals a stark contrast in leadership results:

• Duterte—though controversial—delivered infrastructure, protected OFWs, and took strong political and social stances.

• Marcos Jr.—though diplomatic and modern in tone—has yet to deliver tangible infrastructure gains and is often seen as too cautious or disconnected in urgent matters.

While both presidents had unique contexts and challenges, results still matter more than rhetoric. The Filipino people deserve leadership that acts decisively, builds consistently, and stands boldly for every citizen, at home or abroad.

Call to Action:

As citizens, let's continue to demand transparency, measurable performance, and accountability—beyond slogans and promises. Let’s learn from the past and engage more meaningfully in shaping our national future.