On Friday, Vice President Sara Duterte was expected to appear before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to address serious allegations regarding her controversial remarks. The NBI had subpoenaed her following statements she made about potentially having President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez assassinated if a supposed threat to her life materialized. However, Duterte did not attend, sending her lawyer in her place to request a new date.
Why Duterte Missed the Hearing
NBI Director Jaime Santiago explained that Duterte’s lawyer cited a conflict with a House of Representatives hearing scheduled for the same day. Ironically, the House later canceled the hearing to give Duterte the opportunity to comply with the NBI’s summons. According to Santiago, the vice president was informed of the cancellation too late, preventing her from rearranging her schedule. As a result, she requested the NBI to reschedule her appearance.
The NBI has now set the new hearing date for December 11. Duterte’s lawyer also asked for a copy of the complaint and the questions she would face during the investigation, emphasizing the vice president’s right to due process. This, the lawyer argued, would allow her to fully prepare and provide informed responses.
NBI’s Response to the Request
Director Santiago assured the public that the NBI would honor Duterte’s request. “We respect her position as the Vice President, but we also expect her full cooperation,” he said during a press conference. Santiago emphasized that the bureau is treating this as a national security issue, urging Duterte to work with investigators to clarify her remarks.
Controversial Remarks and National Security Concerns
The controversy began during an online press conference on November 23, when Duterte claimed she had arranged for an assassin to target the President, First Lady, and Speaker Romualdez if threats against her life were executed. Following backlash, Duterte insisted her comments were misunderstood and taken out of context.
The NBI subpoena, issued on November 26, mentioned possible violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, further escalating the situation. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Office of the Ombudsman if needed. DOJ Spokesman Jose Dominic Clavano IV urged a calm and measured response to avoid heightening political tensions. “This is a matter of national importance, and we must prioritize dialogue over conflict,” Clavano stated.
A Political Fallout Unfolding?
This incident comes amid a growing rift between Duterte and Marcos, whose alliance once dominated the 2022 elections. As midterm elections approach, tensions have escalated, with both sides exchanging accusations, including allegations of drug abuse.
Duterte has also suggested that the investigation into her remarks, along with an ongoing House inquiry into her financial dealings, are part of a political plot to unseat her. Both she and Speaker Romualdez are seen as potential candidates for the 2028 presidential race, adding more weight to the ongoing drama.
What’s Next?
As the situation unfolds, Duterte faces the possibility of formal charges that could carry significant penalties, including prison time. All eyes are now on the December 11 hearing, where the Vice President is expected to provide her side of the story. The case has drawn national attention, raising critical questions about political rivalry, accountability, and the implications of high-stakes statements made by public officials.
