A recent survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) has revealed a significant shift in public sentiment, with 41 percent of Filipinos expressing support for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. This marks a new chapter in the political landscape, as the growing dissatisfaction with Duterte’s leadership begins to take center stage.
The nationwide survey, conducted from 12 to 18 December 2024, with 2,160 respondents, carries a margin of error of ±2 percent. The results reflect a sharp political divide, with notable regional differences highlighting the cracks in Duterte’s once-solid support base.
On balance Luzon, Duterte’s impeachment enjoys the strongest backing, with 50 percent of respondents in favor of her removal from office. However, Mindanao, traditionally a stronghold of Duterte’s family, shows a stark contrast, with 56 percent opposing the impeachment effort. The sharp difference between these regions underscores the changing dynamics of Duterte’s political influence, even within her home region.
Notably, the Visayas emerges as the most divided region, with a high percentage of respondents—19 percent—remaining undecided on the issue, pointing to an uncertain political future for the Vice President in the central islands.
Support for the impeachment also varies across socio-economic classes. The wealthier classes, ABC, show the highest level of support, with half of respondents endorsing the move. This suggests that concerns about Duterte’s actions, particularly surrounding the handling of government funds, may be resonating more strongly with the urban elite and middle class.
Among the reasons fueling the impeachment push, 46 percent of Filipinos cited the unexplained spending of confidential and intelligence funds by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) as the primary basis for her removal. This issue has sparked widespread public concern, as Duterte has faced growing scrutiny for her refusal to provide clear answers on the expenditures, further eroding her credibility.
Another 36 percent of respondents pointed to Duterte’s reluctance to answer inquiries regarding the funds as a key factor contributing to calls for her impeachment. The refusal to engage with investigations has amplified perceptions of transparency issues within her office.
Further, accusations of ill-gotten wealth—linked to discrepancies in her Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN)—were cited by 25 percent of Filipinos as another possible grounds for impeachment.
Lastly, threats to the lives of prominent figures, including President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., were cited by 24 percent of respondents as a serious concern, with implications for her future in office.
The survey results signal a notable shift in the political calculus for Vice President Sara Duterte, whose family has long held significant power in Philippine politics. With growing calls for her impeachment gaining traction in key areas of the country, the situation highlights the potential for deeper rifts within the ruling administration and could have significant implications for the Marcos-Duterte political alliance.
As the impeachment movement gains momentum, the coming months will likely see increased political maneuvering, with opponents seizing the opportunity to challenge Duterte’s position. Conversely, Duterte’s allies will no doubt mount a vigorous defense, aiming to retain her political standing amid the rising calls for accountability.
With an election year looming, the fate of Sara Duterte may well be a defining issue in the Philippines’ political future.
