MANILA — The number of lawmakers supporting the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte has climbed to 239, up from 215 when it was first transmitted to the Senate on Wednesday.
The update was shared by members of the “Young Guns” bloc, Assistant Minority Leader Rep. Rodge Gutierrez (1-Rider Party-list) and Assistant Majority Leader Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong (Lanao del Sur 1st District), during a press conference on Thursday, February 6.
The fourth impeachment complaint against Duterte was forwarded to the Senate with the backing of 215 legislators—more than double the required 102 signatures, which represent one-third of the 306-member House of Representatives.
“The 215 signatories were physically present during the filing, but others have since expressed their support,” Adiong explained.
He noted that while additional lawmakers want to be included as complainants, the decision on whether the number can be officially amended will depend on the Senate, which serves as the impeachment court.
As the press briefing continued, Gutierrez confirmed that the count had increased to 239 and could rise further.
“The final decision on whether these additional signatories will be recognized as complainants will be based on the Senate’s impeachment rules, which are yet to be released,” Gutierrez, a member of the House prosecution panel, said.
Regardless of the growing number of supporters, he emphasized that the original 215 signatures were already enough to make the complaint “sufficient in form and substance.”