SOUTH COTABATO, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday, September 21, refused to address the active impeachment trial against her, explaining that commenting publicly on the matter could lead to a contempt citation.
Duterte made the statement during a doorstep interview in the town of Banga, South Cotabato, when reporters questioned her about the case alongside other national issues.
“Mako-contempt ako sir eh kapag sumagot ako sa impeachment,” Duterte said.
“Masyado ng maraming problema ang mga abogado ko ayaw ko nang dagdagan yung kanilang problema with the contempt,” she added.
The Vice President refrained from discussing any particulars regarding the proceedings as the Senate continues to try the impeachment charges leveled against her.
While Duterte has routinely deferred legal statements regarding the case to her defense team during public appearances, her latest remarks underscore a strict adherence to silence to avoid potential legal complications.