VP Duterte - Alokasyon sa 2026 budget, inalok sa mga kongresista kapalit ng lagda para... | SONA

Allegation Over 2026 Budget Deliberations

Vice President Sara Duterte claimed that the proposed 2026 budget allocation is being used as leverage to collect signatures for another impeachment complaint against her. Multiple congressmen denied the allegation, stating that impeachment-related efforts were not raised or discussed during House budget deliberations.

Key Points Mentioned in the Report

• February: 215 lawmakers signed the fourth impeachment complaint against Duterte, but it was later archived by the Senate after the Supreme Court declared it unconstitutional.
• Duterte’s claim: Duterte believes the same “signature-gathering” tactic may be repeated again before the 2026 budget is finalized.
• Makabayan alliance: A new Makabayan alliance said it is preparing to file a new impeachment complaint after a one-year ban expires on February 5, 2026.
• House Minority response: House minority representatives rejected Duterte’s claim, arguing that impeachment was not part of budget discussions in the House. They also noted that the House version of the 2026 budget had already been passed (as of October 13) and is now pending in the Senate.

Commentary and Criticisms

The commentary frames the accusation as a potential bargaining tactic. Critics, however, argue that they have ensured Duterte can respond through proper channels, and add that Duterte should not “use the impeachment process” as a substitute for substantive, budget-related accountability.

Presenters / Contributors

• Tina Panganiban Perez — Reporter, GMA Integrated News
• Vice President Sara Duterte — Subject of the claims