Sara Duterte impeachment trial intensifies as prosecutors seek bank record subpoenas

Vice President Sara Duterte faces an impeachment trial in the Philippine Senate, with prosecutors focusing on Article II alleging unexplained wealth. On July 14, 2026, the House prosecution asked the court to subpoena Duterte's and her husband's bank and tax records, prompting the defense to argue the request is oppressive, unreasonable and violates due process.

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jeremy Lotoc testified that the alleged "Operation Romanov" plot, cited by Duterte as a justification for threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., was originally a warning directed at the Marcos family, not the Dutertes. The same day, former Iloilo Representative Niel Tupas Jr., who prosecuted the 2012 Corona impeachment, said the grave‑threats article is the weakest charge and urged prosecutors to prioritize graft and corruption allegations.

Public opinion remains divided: a Tangere survey found a slim lead for the prosecution (32% vs 30%) with 38% undecided. Senator‑judge Robin Padilla urged NBI Director Lotoc to face pending complaints against him, highlighting the contentious atmosphere surrounding the trial.