Two impeachments

The simultaneous impeachment proceedings against the two top officials of the land, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, before the House of Representatives are creating a political spectacle unprecedented in Philippine history.

The image of both the nation’s top leaders facing removal from office at the same time has riveted the public, divided the political class, and tested the very foundations of our democracy.

On the one hand, the process points to the vibrancy of the country’s institutions. That Congress can initiate and pursue impeachment proceedings against leaders as influential as Marcos and Duterte gives us hope in constitutional checks and balances. For decades, critics have lamented the impunity of those in high office; now, the process is on full display, and no one is above scrutiny.

On the other hand, there is an undeniable sense of political theater surrounding the impeachment process. The impeachment process, by its nature, is deeply political, not just legal. The allegations, the alliances formed, and the narratives constructed by both sides are as much about political survival and future elections as about justice and accountability. This leaves the public wondering whether the focus is on upholding the law or settling political scores.

It’s pretty easy to anticipate which impeachment complaints will be dismissed and which ones may successfully reach the Senate for trial in July last year.

A similar situation occurred when lawmakers pushed through an impeachment complaint against Duterte in the Senate. However, the Supreme Court stopped it due to constitutional and technical issues, as it violated the one-year ban on filing such complaints.

For the President, it would be the first time that such an impeachment action was initiated. Whether it could gain the required votes to dismiss it or transmit it to the Senate is another matter, depending on the evidence presented and considering the ruling administration’s allies in Congress.

But one thing is sure: The twin impeachments have exposed the deep divisions in society. Supporters of both Mr. Marcos and Ms. Duterte have taken to the streets and social media, turning the process into a battleground for rival visions of the country’s future.

The polarization is palpable, and the risk is that, whatever the outcome, half the nation will feel betrayed and alienated.

Still, there is an opportunity in crisis. These impeachments could be a turning point — an impetus for institutional reform, greater transparency, and a more engaged citizenry.

For the process to have legitimacy, it must be conducted with fairness, transparency, and respect for due process. The world is watching, and so are we who yearn for leaders who serve, not just rule.

In the end, the two impeachments are a stress test for Philippine democracy. These remarkable political events challenge our institutions and call into question the resilience of our democratic norms.

Will we emerge from this with stronger institutions and a renewed sense of civic purpose? Or will we descend further into division and cynicism? The answer depends not just on our leaders; it also hinges on our active participation and engagement.

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