The Supreme Court (SC) En Banc upheld with finality its ruling that the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte are unconstitutional, denying the House of Representatives’ appeal to reverse the decision and affirming that the Senate did not acquire jurisdiction over the proceedings, according to a report by RH Boy Gonzales.

In a unanimous vote, the Court upheld its July 25, 2025 decision denying the motion for reconsideration filed by the House of Representatives.

The high court clarified that the fourth impeachment complaint, transmitted to the Senate on February 5, 2025, fell within the one-year bar set by the 1987 Constitution.

The Court noted that the first three impeachment complaints filed in the House were not included in the Order of Business within the required ten session days.

It further explained that “session days” refer to the actual days the House is in session, not the broader legislative session.

The SC also reiterated that when an impeachment complaint is considered “initiated” under the one-year bar, including cases where it fails to pass the Committee on Justice or is not transmitted to the Senate before Congress adjourns sine die.

While recognizing the House of Representatives’ authority to formulate its own rules on impeachment, the Court emphasized that “due process“ must still be observed throughout the impeachment process.

The Court clarified that a full trial only occurs in the Senate, whereas in the House, compliance with constitutional and procedural requirements is sufficient.

The Supreme Court resolution takes immediate effect, and no further pleadings will be entertained.