Abante says Sara’s 2028 bid opens ‘Pandora’s box’ of allegations

Vice President Sara Duterte’s early declaration to seek the presidency in the 2028 national elections has opened a “Pandora’s box” of serious allegations that she must answer, Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. said.

The Manila lawmaker said he did not want to “pre-empt what the intention of the vice president would be,” but questioned the timing of her announcement, especially since three impeachment complaints had already been filed against her at that time.

“Napakaaga ng kanyang announcement (Her announcement is too early),” Abante said, pointing out that there are still two full years before the 2028 national elections.

For the veteran legislator, Duterte’s pronouncement does not shut down the controversy; instead, it could bring the issues further into public view.

“Her announcement would open the Pandora’s box for everything. That will expose her publicly,” said the House Committee on Human Rights chairman.

Abante added that the development places the burden on the Vice President to address the questions raised against her, as the public weighs what kind of leadership and direction she offers.

He said it is up to the Vice President to explain the issues to the Filipino people.

Duterte bared her presidential aspirations on Wednesday morning, 18 February. Later that night, at the House of Representatives, Abante and Deputy Speaker and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega V endorsed the fourth impeachment complaint against the Vice President.

The lone complainant was Atty. Nathaniel Cabrera. Abante said his decision to endorse the complaint had nothing to do with the 2028 presidential race.

“This is about 2026, about whether the Vice President remains fit to hold the second highest office in the land. This is not about politics; this is about accountability and integrity,” Abante said.

The impeachment process offers Duterte a venue to address the accusations head-on, Abante said, adding: “After all, the public deserves clarity on issues tied to the Office of the Vice President (OVP).”

He said that if the Vice President has done nothing wrong, then the impeachment complaint will amount to nothing. However, if wrongdoing is established, the complaint will proceed to the impeachment court.

Abante added that the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, will ultimately decide the case.

“Let the impeachment court decide on that,” he said, noting that the Senate will serve as judge, while members of the House will act as prosecutors.