Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has pleaded not guilty to the impeachment complaint filed against her and has formally requested the Senate impeachment court to dismiss the case, citing alleged violations of the 1987 Constitution and the one-year ban on impeachment proceedings. Duterte described the complaint as "nothing more than a scrap of paper" and argued that the impeachment trial was baseless and unconstitutional. The Supreme Court unanimously ruled to bar the impeachment proceedings against Duterte for one year on grounds of due process, specifically referencing the one-year bar rule, effectively striking down the complaint as unconstitutional. This decision was hailed as a major legal victory for Duterte. The Senate impeachment court stated it is duty-bound to respect the Supreme Court's ruling. However, the House of Representatives expressed intent to file a motion for reconsideration of the Supreme Court's decision. The ruling has sparked debate and criticism, with the Free Legal Assistance Group calling it "grossly unfair" and warning that it could set a dangerous precedent if not reversed. The impeachment trial had been closely followed as a significant political development in the Philippines, with implications for Duterte's political future, including a hinted 2028 presidential run. The Supreme Court's decision has effectively paused the impeachment process for at least one year, though political discussions and potential legal challenges continue.