Marcoleta Moves to Dismiss Duterte Impeachment Complaint, Cites SC Ruling

Sen. Rodante Marcoleta

Marcoleta Moves to Dismiss Duterte Impeachment Complaint, Cites SC Ruling

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNationWeek.Com | August 7, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – Sen. Rodante Marcoleta has formally moved to dismiss the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, arguing that the Supreme Court (SC) has already invalidated the case due to constitutional breaches.

The motion, filed on Aug. 6, hinges on the SC’s finding that the impeachment articles violated the “one-year bar rule,” effectively rendering the proceedings null and void.

In a privilege speech, Marcoleta stressed the binding nature of the high court’s decision.

“The Supreme Court, as the ultimate authority on legal matters, has declared the complaint unconstitutional and void from the outset, infringing on due process,” he declared.

“The Senate did not gain jurisdiction over this matter, and the ruling is immediately enforceable.”

Marcoleta further argued that the preliminary proceedings initiated during the 19th Congress were not properly transitioned into the current 20th Congress, adding another layer of procedural challenge to the impeachment move.

While acknowledging that the decision focused on procedural flaws rather than the substance of the allegations against Duterte, Marcoleta cited the importance of adhering to proper legal processes.

“The Supreme Court is not suggesting that impeachment should never occur; it simply calls for a proper process,” he clarified.

“If there is a desire to impeach the Vice President, it must be done correctly.”

Marcoleta’s motion sets the stage for a Senate debate on the future of the impeachment complaint, with the SC ruling likely to play a central role in the discussion.