The Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the Articles of Impeachment filed by the House of Representatives against Vice President Sara Duterte are “unconstitutional“.
In a 13-0 en banc decision released on July 25, 2025, the High Court declared that the impeachment process violated Article XI, Section 3, Paragraph 5 of the 1987 Constitution, which states that only one impeachment proceeding may be initiated against an impeachable official within a year.
“In a unanimous decision today, July 25, 2025, the Supreme Court en banc declared the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte unconstitutional, noting that it is barred by the year rule under Article 11 Section 3 Paragraph 5 of the Constitution and that it violates the right to due process enshrined in the Bill of Rights,” said Court spokesperson Atty. Camille Ting.
The Court emphasized that the Senate can no longer proceed with the planned impeachment trial.
However, it clarified that this does not equate to an acquittal of Vice President Duterte from the allegations raised.
“Therefore the Senate could not acquire jurisdiction over the impeachment proceedings. However, the Court said it is not absolving Vice President Duterte of any of the charges against her. Any subsequent impeachment complaint may only be filed starting February 6, 2026,” Ting added.
In a statement, Malacañang—through Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro—urged the public to respect the Court’s ruling.
“We call on everyone to respect the Supreme Court and place their trust in our institution,” Castro said.
She also reiterated the administration’s recognition of the separation of powers: “The impeachment proceedings is a matter handled by the legislative and judicial branches, and we recognize their independence in carrying out their constitutional mandates.”