Vice President Impeachment in the Philippines: Who Takes Over?

With discussions surrounding the possible Vice President Impeachment in the Philippines, many Filipinos are asking: Who takes over if the VP is removed from office?

The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides clear guidelines for Vice Presidential succession, ensuring stability in governance. However, the process differs from Presidential succession, as the replacement for an impeached Vice President must go through Congressional approval.

This article explores:

✔ The constitutional process for replacing the Vice President

✔ The presidential line of succession if both the President and VP are removed

✔ The implications of a prolonged VP vacancy

Understanding these legal provisions is essential for every Filipino concerned about governance and constitutional law.

1. What Happens If the Vice President Is Impeached?

Sara Duterte taking her oath as Vice President of the Philippines. If impeached, her successor will be appointed by the President and confirmed by Congress.

The Constitutional Process for VP Succession

📜 Article VII, Section 9 of the Philippine Constitution states:

“Whenever there is a vacancy in the Office of the Vice-President, the President shall nominate a Vice-President from among the members of the Senate and the House of Representatives who shall assume office upon confirmation by a majority vote of all the Members of both Houses of Congress, voting separately.”

🔹 Key Takeaways:

✔ The President nominates a new Vice President.

✔ The nominee must be a current Senator or Representative.

✔ Congress (both Senate & House) must confirm the nomination with a majority vote.

Unlike a Presidential vacancy, where the VP automatically assumes office, the Vice Presidential succession process requires Congressional approval, making it a more political process.

2. What If Both the President and Vice President Are Removed?

The Philippine House of Representatives votes on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, with Sandro Marcos in focus. Congress also plays a key role in confirming her successor if removed.

The 1987 Constitution establishes a clear line of succession in case both the President and Vice President are removed from office:

🛑 Presidential Line of Succession (Article VII, Section 7):

1️⃣ The Senate President assumes the Presidency.

2️⃣ If the Senate President is unable to serve, the Speaker of the House becomes Acting President.

3️⃣ A special election is held to elect a new President and Vice President.

🔹 Why This Matters:

• Ensures continuous governance even if both top officials are removed.

• Prevents a leadership vacuum that could create political instability.

• Highlights the important role of the Senate President in national leadership.

3. What If There’s a Prolonged Vice Presidential Vacancy?

One of the biggest concerns in a Vice Presidential vacancy is the lack of a strict deadline for appointing a replacement. The Constitution does not specify a timeframe, meaning the position could remain vacant for an extended period.

🔹 Potential Issues of a Long VP Vacancy:

✔ Reduced Stability in Government – The VP is next in line to the Presidency, and a prolonged vacancy weakens the line of succession.

✔ Power Struggles in Congress – Without a VP, political factions in the Senate and House may push for different candidates.

✔ Increased Importance of the Senate Presidency – With no VP, the Senate President becomes next in line for the Presidency, raising the political stakes.

🔹 Historical Precedents:

• VP Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2001) – When she assumed the Presidency, the VP post was left vacant until then-Senator Teofisto Guingona was nominated and confirmed.

• VP Fernando Lopez (1969-1972) – His diminished role as VP highlighted how the Vice Presidency’s importance can shift depending on political circumstances.

While vacancies have historically been resolved, a clearer timeframe for VP succession would help avoid governance issues.

4. Why Understanding the VP Succession Process Matters

The Vice President plays a crucial role in Philippine governance. Beyond being the next in line to the Presidency, the VP also serves as a political leader, crisis manager, and policy influencer.

Key Reasons This Matters:

✔ Prevents Constitutional Violations – Knowing the law ensures that the correct process is followed in leadership transitions.

✔ Strengthens Political Accountability – Citizens can demand transparency from public officials.

✔ Protects Democratic Stability – A clear understanding of succession laws prevents power struggles and political uncertainty.

📌 What You Can Do:

🔹 Stay informed about legal processes related to impeachment and succession.

🔹 Demand accountability from government officials to follow constitutional procedures.

🔹 Engage in discussions on potential legal reforms to improve VP succession laws.