The House Committee on Justice will need at least 28 votes to determine probable cause in the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, according to committee chair, Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro.
Luistro explained that the threshold represents a majority of the committee’s 55 members, including ex-officio members, regardless of how many lawmakers are present during the vote. A finding of probable cause would mark the final step at the committee level before the case is elevated to the House plenary.
Earlier this week, the panel ruled that the two remaining impeachment complaints were sufficient in form and substance, completing the initial phase of the proceedings. A notice was subsequently sent to Duterte, giving her 10 days to submit a response.
Under the process, Duterte’s reply will be transmitted to the complainants, who will have three days to file a rejoinder. The Vice President will then be given another three days to respond.
After reviewing the submissions, the committee will decide whether there are sufficient grounds to proceed with hearings. Luistro said Duterte will be invited to attend as part of the due process afforded to her.
“Let us understand na ‘yung presence during the hearing proper is part of her due process. In other words, the prerogative belongs to her. Whether she wants to come or not to come, that is actually her option,” Luistro noted.
During the hearings, both sides will be allowed to present witnesses and evidence. Once the committee votes on probable cause, its recommendation will be transmitted to the House plenary.
If at least one-third of the 316 members of the House of Representatives vote in favor of the complaint, the impeachment case will move to the Senate of the Philippines for trial.