Philippine Vice President Sara has applied for overseas leave amid impeachment proceedings, with approval already granted by the presidential palace, drawing attention from various sectors.
According to Philippine media reports, Sara will embark on an overseas trip from April 23 to May 15, visiting the Netherlands, South Korea, Belgium, Germany, and the United Kingdom. All expenses for the trip will be personally covered by her and will not involve government funds.
This trip coincides with a critical stage of the impeachment case. The Philippine House of Representatives is advancing related procedures, while the Senate is preparing to receive the case. Senate President Sotto stated that if the House completes the submission before May 4, the Senate can immediately establish an impeachment court to begin hearings.
In a previous impeachment case in 2025, the House passed the impeachment quickly, but it was subsequently terminated after the Philippine Supreme Court ruled the process unconstitutional. Analysts believe that this case still has a substantial chance of advancing to a Senate trial.
Sara is the eldest daughter of former Philippine President Duterte and had already announced her candidacy for the 2028 presidential election in February this year.
Meanwhile, Duterte himself is also facing legal challenges. The International Criminal Court, based in The Hague, Netherlands, has announced it will launch a trial against him on three counts of crimes against humanity. The case stems from a long-term investigation into whether his anti-drug campaign during his term involved human rights violations.