Philippines Holds Historic Vote and Duterte Impeachment Trial

On September 14, 2026, the southern Philippines held its first elections for a Muslim autonomous region, while in a separate proceeding, the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte continued with a former Sandiganbayan justice, Cabotaje-Tang, approved to testify. The regional vote marks a milestone for the newly established Bangsamoro autonomous government, but was overshadowed by election violence that left at least three people dead. In the impeachment trial, Cabotaje-Tang took the witness stand as the Senate Impeachment Court approved her testimony. These events occur against the backdrop of the Philippines' ongoing political transition and efforts to implement a peace agreement in the south.