MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. now formally faces an impeachment complaint after it was filed on Monday, January 19, with the House of Representatives, endorsed by Rep. Jett Nisay (Pusong Pinoy Party-list). Lawyer Andre de Jesus is the sole complainant.

De Jesus said the complaint rests on three grounds: culpable violation of the Constitution, graft and corruption, and betrayal of public trust.

The complaint cites the ongoing flood control investigation, which alleges Marcos and former officials pocketed billions by manipulating the budget. It also raises other issues, including the arrest and transfer of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands, which the complainant described as a violation of due process.

“We are putting to question and holding the president accountable, number 1, for allowing a citizen of our country to be whisked away, kidnapped virtually and brought to a foreign land without due process, despite fully functioning courts here in the country,” de Jesus told reporters.

The complaint further questioned Marcos’ handling of the 2026 budget, alleging he allowed P243 billion in unprogrammed appropriations to remain, including P150 billion that could have been vetoed. It also cited allegations of illegal drug use, which Malacañang has denied.

De Jesus acknowledged the political challenges in moving the complaint forward but said the act of filing was important regardless of the outcome.

In response, the Palace said Marcos “fully upholds the Constitution and remains confident in the strength of our democratic institutions.” Malacañang emphasized that the president will continue to govern while respecting the impeachment process and expressed trust that Congress will act according to law.

Under House rules, the complaint must be referred to the Office of the Speaker within 10 session days and then to the Committee on Justice for deliberation. The committee will determine whether the complaint is sufficient in form and substance and whether probable cause exists. If the committee recommends dismissal, the House plenary may override the decision if at least one-third of all members vote to proceed.

The impeachment complaint also cited a claim by former lawmaker Zaldy Co that Marcos ordered a P100 billion insertion in the 2025 national budget for kickbacks. It remains to be seen whether Congress will allow the complaint to advance, amid other ongoing impeachment-related controversies involving former Vice President Sara Duterte.