The Makabayan bloc denounces Vice President Sara Duterte’s premature 2028 presidential bid as a cynical ploy to evade accountability.
In a statement, the progressive solons said that Duterte’s announcement, two years ahead of the elections, is a calculated attempt to frame impeachment as political persecution rather than what it truly is: a constitutional process to hold her liable for corruption, misuse of confidential funds, and betrayal of public trust.
“Huwag nyang linlangin ang mamamayan. Ang impeachment laban sa kanya ay hindi pulitika—ito ay pananagutan,” the bloc stressed, citing allegations of unaccounted millions in confidential funds, campaign financing from POGO operators and drug syndicates, and whistleblower testimony linking her to criminal activities.
By weaponizing her candidacy, Duterte seeks to portray herself as a victim and pressure Congress to weaken impeachment proceedings. This, Makabayan warns, is a classic authoritarian tactic: declare candidacy, claim persecution, and rally supporters on loyalty rather than evidence.
The bloc emphasized that the impeachment complaint rests on documented allegations, including misuse of hundreds of millions in public funds, illicit campaign financing, and military officers allegedly acting as bagmen. These are not political accusations but charges of corruption, money laundering, and betrayal of public trust.
“Kung wala kang tinatago, Madam Vice President, harapin mo ang impeachment. Sagutin mo ang mga paratang. Ipakita mo ang resibo ng confidential funds. Huwag kang tumakbo sa 2028 para takasan ang accountability sa 2026,” Makabayan declared.
The bloc urged House leaders to secure the one-third vote needed to fast-track impeachment, insisting the process must be guided by evidence, not Duterte’s political ambitions.
“Accountability first. Justice first. The truth first. Only then can the nation talk about 2028.” (ZIA LUNA)
