MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte criticized the House Committee on Justice hearings on her impeachment complaints, calling them a “political fishing expedition” that prioritizes politics over the struggles of ordinary Filipinos.

In a statement, Duterte said the invitation to attend the hearings has been used to create a media narrative of a “mini-trial,” despite her submission of an official written response, or Answer ad Cautelam. She noted that there is no rule requiring her personal attendance at the hearings.

“The current problem in the country is the threat of business closures, job losses, and the hardships of Filipino families due to rising prices,” Duterte said. “Instead of focusing on the urgent needs of millions of Filipinos, the House continues to prioritize politics.”

She urged the committee to dismiss the complaints due to insufficient evidence, while reiterating her commitment to spend her time helping Filipinos directly in their communities to ease the burden of high prices.

“Malinaw na walang patakaran na nagsasabing kailangang personal na dumalo ang respondent sa impeachment complaint sa mga pagdinig ng Committee on Justice… mas pipiliin kong ilaan ang aking oras sa pagtulong sa mga Pilipino,” she said.