MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial hit a critical juncture on Monday, the seventh day of proceedings, as the Senate Impeachment Court weighed whether to subpoena her bank and tax records.

The requested documents could serve as crucial evidence when the impeachment court considers Article II of the complaint, which alleges unexplained wealth. This is the last article the complainants filed against Duterte.

Sara Duterte, the 47-year-old daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, has been facing impeachment charges since May 2026. She was impeached by the House of Representatives on Article I, which accused her of betraying public trust over alleged anomalies during her time as Education Secretary.

However, the impeachment court has yet to receive evidence of her alleged unexplained wealth. The bank and tax records could be key to the trial, as they will show how she acquired her wealth during her public service career. Sara Duterte has 17 properties registered in her name, valued at over ₱1.5 billion (1.9 million USD).

Duterte has maintained her innocence, saying the allegations are ' baseless and without merit'. She has also denied any wrongdoing, stating that she has ' done nothing but serve the people of the Philippines'.

The Senate Impeachment Court has been under pressure to conclude the trial quickly, as Congress is set to adjourn in August 2026. With Sara Duterte's bank and tax records on the table, this decision will be a crucial step in determining her fate.

The court's decision will be announced on Monday. If the records are subpoenaed, Sara Duterte will have to present them to the court as evidence.

The Philippines' Senate Impeachment Court has the power to remove Sara Duterte from office if she is found guilty of the allegations.

In a separate issue, Sara Duterte's office has been embroiled in controversy over alleged corruption and cronyism. Critics have accused her of rewarding allies and friends with lucrative government contracts.

The court's decision is expected to be closely watched by the public and the media.

Sara Duterte has been a polarizing figure in the Philippines, known for her strong personality and unapologetic style.

The Senate Impeachment Court first convened on July 13, 2026, to take up the impeachment complaint against Sara Duterte.

The trial is still ongoing at the time of writing.

Key Facts

  • Sara Duterte's bank and tax records are set to be subpoenaed by the Senate Impeachment Court as evidence in her impeachment trial.
  • The court is looking for evidence of unexplained wealth, which is the last article of the complaint against her.
  • Sara Duterte has 17 properties registered in her name, valued at over ₱1.5 billion (1.9 million USD).
  • The Philippines' Senate Impeachment Court has the power to remove Sara Duterte from office if she is found guilty of the allegations.
  • Sara Duterte's office has been embroiled in controversy over alleged corruption and cronyism.