SWS SURVEY SHOWING SUPPORT FOR SARA IMPEACHMENT CONFIRMS PUBLIC CLAMOR FOR ACCOUNTABILITY – HOUSE LEADERS

House Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales and House Deputy Speaker David "Jayjay" Suarez underscored the significance of a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing rising support for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, stressing that it reflects the growing public demand for accountability and transparency in governance.

In a statement on Sunday, January 12, the two high-ranking leaders of the House of Representatives highlighted the gravity of the survey's findings, which revealed that 41% of Filipinos support the impeachment of Duterte, while 35% oppose it, and 19% remain undecided. The survey was conducted from December 12 to 18, 2024, with 2,160 respondents nationwide.

"Ipinapakita ng survey na ang karamihan sa ating mga kababayan ay naghahangad ng pananagutan mula sa ating mga lider. Dapat nang ipaliwanag at linawin ni VP Duterte kung saan napunta at paano ginamit ang daang milyong confidential funds ng kanyang tanggapan," Gonzales said.

Suarez emphasized the growing public frustration over allegations of governance lapses, particularly regarding the controversial use of P612 million in confidential funds and the involvement of fabricated names like "Mary Grace Piattos" in financial documents.

"Dapat nang ipaliwanag ni VP Sara ang kontrobersyal na isyu tungkol kay Mary Grace Piattos at ang kahina-hinalang paggastos ng P612 milyon sa confidential funds. Hindi na maaaring balewalain ang mga ito," Suarez stated.

The two lawmakers stressed that the survey results reflect a deep desire for ethical leadership, with Gonzales noting that the public is calling for leaders who are transparent and accountable.

"This sends a clear message: Filipinos demand leaders who are accountable and transparent in their actions," Suarez said.

Gonzales also pointed out that the survey results underline the importance of strong democratic institutions.

"The survey results confirm that our democratic institutions must remain responsive to the people’s will. This is not just about numbers anymore; it is about restoring faith in governance," Gonzales added.

The Vice President has faced increasing scrutiny over the alleged mismanagement of P612 million in confidential funds, with congressional hearings uncovering discrepancies.

Suarez reiterated that the impeachment complaints filed against Duterte reflect the public’s clamor for accountability.

"Dapat natin igalang ang damdamin ng publiko na nais na ituloy ang mga reklamong impeachment laban sa Pangalawang Pangulo," Suarez said.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring fair and thorough deliberation.

"This is an opportunity for the House of Representatives to show that no one is above the law. The people are watching, and they expect us to act with integrity," Suarez concluded.

Both leaders stressed that addressing these allegations is vital to restoring public trust and safeguarding democratic values.

"The people deserve answers. Let us not allow controversies like these to undermine our democracy," Suarez said.