Philippine Lawmakers Find Bid to Impeach Marcos to Be ‘Insufficient in Substance’

Philippine lawmakers on Wednesday dismissed two impeachment complaints against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., ruling that the allegations did not meet the constitutional threshold for substance — effectively forestalling a possible impeachment trial and providing the president with a reprieve amid ongoing political tensions.

By David Thompson – News Reporter

Last Updated: Feb. 3, 2026

Justice Panel Dismisses Impeachment Complaints

After three days of hearings, the House Committee on Justice in the Philippines voted overwhelmingly to declare two impeachment complaints against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as “insufficient in substance,” effectively blocking them from progressing further. The complaints, filed separately by a private lawyer and left‑wing activists, alleged corruption, constitutional violations and betrayal of public trust but were judged to lack the necessary factual foundation and direct linkage to impeachable offenses outlined in the Philippine Constitution. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Lawmakers Cite Weak Evidence and Legal Gaps

Committee members who supported dismissal argued that many of the allegations — including claims of graft and misuse of public funds — were based on speculative assertions, media reports or failures to clearly tie the president’s actions to specific constitutional grounds for impeachment. Members stressed that preliminary impeachment review hinges on whether complaints present ‘ultimate facts’ capable of showing a high crime, betrayal of public trust or other impeachable acts, rather than mere political criticism. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Political Dynamics and Congressional Control

The impeachment process in the Philippines is inherently political, and critics of the ruling noted that the House of Representatives is dominated by allies of President Marcos Jr., which made the dismissal of the complaints widely anticipated. Opponents contend the outcome underscores how political majorities can influence constitutional processes, while supporters argue it reflects a strict adherence to procedural and legal standards for impeachment. Regardless of interpretation, the president has secured a significant reprieve, as Philippine law prohibits refiling another impeachment complaint against the same official within a year. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

President Marcos’ Response and Support

Following the justice committee’s decision, Malacañang Palace welcomed the ruling, with government officials saying the process was carried out according to legal norms and that lawmakers had ‘recognized the real truth’ regarding the allegations. President Marcos, who has denied all wrongdoing, has framed the impeachment attempts as politically motivated efforts to damage his administration rather than legitimate constitutional actions. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Broader Implications and Ongoing Political Tensions

The dismissal of the impeachment complaints does not eliminate political tensions in the Philippines, where accusations of corruption, legal battles and elite rivalries continue to shape national discourse. Meanwhile, separate impeachment efforts against Vice President Sara Duterte have also been filed, centering on allegations of misuse of confidential funds. These developments come as the country approaches future elections and grapple with issues of governance, accountability and the interpretation of constitutional checks and balances. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}