Sara Duterte Slams Impeachment as Political Persecution
SARA DUTERTE – Vice President Sara Duterte denounced the impeachment proceedings against her, branding them a clear case of political persecution.
Vice President Sara Duterte has described her ongoing impeachment proceedings as a form of persecution, likening it to a “crucifixion” and “her own bloodbath.” Speaking at a press conference held on May 31 in The Hague, Netherlands, Duterte expressed frustration over how her recent statements have been interpreted by the public and lawmakers.
“It’s a persecution, some sort of crucifixion. And so when there’s crucifixion, there’s blood. So it’s a bloodbath, my bloodbath,” Duterte said, referring to her legal and political battle. She added, “I’m just sad that many people refuse to understand the context wherein I give my statements.”
Duterte’s earlier remark stating she wanted her impeachment trial to proceed because she preferred a “bloodbath” drew widespread concern. Iloilo 3rd District Representative Lorenz Defensor called it a “terrible example to the youth.” In response, Duterte insisted her remarks were metaphorical and misinterpreted. “Many misunderstood the word ‘bloodbath.’ Many did not want to understand, refused to understand what it means. We have always said that the impeachment is a political persecution. It is the administration going after me, after I resigned from the Cabinet,” she explained.
The press briefing coincided with a rally outside the Scheveningen Prison in The Hague in support of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who remains under custody of the International Criminal Court. Senators Robin Padilla and Imee Marcos were also present at the event, speaking in solidarity.
According to the report, the presentation of the Articles of Impeachment in the Senate is now scheduled for June 11, just two days before the 19th Congress adjourns. The original date of June 2 was moved to allow the Senate to focus on urgent legislative priorities, according to Senate President Chiz Escudero.
Despite doubts over whether the impeachment trial will proceed due to time constraints, Duterte said her legal team remains prepared.
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