From Reuters

By Rhianna Ramos

On Monday, January 19, the first impeachment complaint against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was filed in the House of Representatives, alleging that the president allowed unconstitutional spending practices.

The complaint was lodged by lawyer Andres de Jesus and endorsed by Pusong Pinoy party-list Rep. Jett Nisay, who argued that Marcos committed culpable violation of the Constitution.

The grounds for impeachment include allegations stemming from the recent investigation on flood-control projects and a corruption scandal, which claim that Marcos and former officials he appointed allegedly pocketed billions by manipulating the budget.

De Jesus further questioned Marcos’ fitness to lead, citing accusations of illegal drug use, which Malacañang denied.

According to the complaint, the unprogrammed funds that remained in the budget should not have been retained, as the president had constitutional authority to veto items deemed unnecessary or unsupported.

The allegations also extend to the president’s handling of the International Criminal Court (ICC) transfer involving former President Rodrigo Duterte. 

De Jesus explained, “We are putting to question and holding the president accountable … for allowing a citizen of our country to be whisked away without due process, despite fully functioning courts here in the country.”

With this, House Secretary General Cheloy Garafil confirmed that the complaint had been officially received and will be transmitted to the Office of the Speaker for inclusion in the Order of Business within ten session days.

It will then be referred to the House Committee on Justice for review, in accordance with constitutional rules on impeachment.

However, if no probable cause is found, the committee may recommend dismissal, although the House plenary can override such a recommendation if at least one-third of all members vote to proceed.

Some administration-aligned lawmakers, including the leaders of the National Unity Party, have expressed skepticism over the complaint’s prospects, arguing that it lacks clear factual basis and is unlikely to gain traction in a House dominated by pro-Marcos members.

At the same time, Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno emphasized that party members would still comply with legal standards and follow proper procedure if a complaint is filed.

Meanwhile, opposition lawmakers, including members of the Makabayan bloc, have signaled plans to submit additional impeachment complaints focusing on alleged misuse of public funds in flood-control and other national projects.

Malacañang has responded to the filing, saying it “respects the impeachment complaint as part of the Philippines’ democratic process.” 

It also reaffirmed that the president “fully upholds the Constitution” and remains confident in the strength of democratic institutions.

The Palace emphasized that Marcos will continue to govern and ensure public services remain uninterrupted while the process unfolds, and expressed trust that Congress — as a co-equal branch of government — will act with honesty, integrity, and fidelity to the rule of law.