The Philippines' Vice President Sara Duterte enjoyed a 58% approval rating from respondents in a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey. This news came as a surprise to many, especially considering it was amidst her impeachment trial. You might be wondering why impeachment proceedings are ongoing despite such high approval ratings. The answer lies in the fact that the pursuit of accountability is not a popularity contest or a beauty pageant, according to prosecution panel spokesperson Robert Ace Barbers. On Friday, Barbers and members of the House of Representatives' prosecution team were asked about the call of some Duterte supporters to stop her trial after the SWS survey revealed the high satisfaction rate. Barbers emphasized that the impeachment proceedings should not be stopped on the basis of polls and ratings. The Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey also revealed that 26% of respondents were dissatisfied with Duterte's performance. While this may indicate a split opinion, it doesn't necessarily justify halting the trial. In fact, the survey findings were used as a way to further scrutinize Duterte's actions and decisions as Vice President. Duterte's impeachment trial has been ongoing since May 2026, with various accusations against her including corruption and abuse of power. However, despite these allegations, the Vice President has maintained a high level of popularity among the Filipino people.
'The pursuit of accountability is not a popularity contest or a beauty pageant. We will continue to pursue the truth and uphold the law, regardless of the Vice President's ratings.'
Barbers' statement was met with resistance from some Duterte supporters, who argue that the trial should be stopped due to her high approval ratings. However, the prosecution team remains committed to seeing the trial through to its conclusion. Duterte's impeachment trial is a complex and sensitive issue, with many stakeholders involved. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: the pursuit of accountability will continue, unfazed by public opinion or ratings. Sara Duterte is the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte and has been Vice President since 2024. She has been embroiled in several controversies since taking office, including allegations of corruption and abuse of power. The impeachment trial of Sara Duterte is a major development in the Philippines' political landscape, with many watching with bated breath as the proceedings unfold. Key Facts
- 58% of respondents were satisfied with Sara Duterte's performance in a recent SWS survey.
- 26% of respondents were dissatisfied with her performance.
- The impeachment trial of Sara Duterte has been ongoing since May 2026.
- Duterte has been accused of corruption and abuse of power.