Rep. Duterte warns of 'consequences' of VP Sara impeachment

MANILA — Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte has denounced efforts to impeach his sister Vice President Sara Duterte, calling them "politically-motivated" and "baseless."  

In a statement, Duterte accused lawmakers, particularly Rep. Janette Garin, of rushing to gather signatures to push the impeachment forward. 

He described the move as "a clear act of political persecution."  

"This administration is treading on dangerous ground," Duterte warned, citing the recent Iglesia Ni Cristo rally that drew over a million participants. He claimed growing public frustration could escalate further. 

He also cautioned the Marcos administration against disregarding public sentiment. 

"If they think they can push this sham impeachment without consequence, they are gravely mistaken," he said.  

Duterte emphasized that the issue goes beyond Vice President Duterte, framing it as a test of democracy and public will. 

"The growing discontent and frustration across the country will not be contained for long," he added.  

The House secretary general on Wednesday said more than enough House members have signed on to a fourth impeachment complaint against Duterte.

A Social Weather Stations survey in December showed 41 percent of Filipinos support the impeachment of Duterte while 19 percent are "undecided."