Vice President Sara Duterte has confirmed that she received a formal subpoena from the Office of the Prosecutor in connection with an NBI case accusing her of issuing grave threats against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The summons comes after the NBI filed incitement to sedition and grave threat charges following Duterte’s online remarks that she had instructed someone to kill Marcos, his wife, and his cousin if she were assassinated. NBI Chief Jaime Santiago has affirmed that the subpoena is part of a preliminary investigation slated for early May, while key political figures, including Senator Imee Marcos, are urging further probes into the matter.
The Shock of the Summons
In a move that sent a ripple through Malacañang, Vice President Sara Duterte revealed late Tuesday that she received a summons from the Office of the Prosecutor over a case filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
What Happened?
Duterte made the announcement during a chance interview in Sogod, Southern Leyte, after expressing surprise at a separate non-bailable trafficking charge against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. She said, “In fact, ako man ay naka-receive din kanina ng summons sa Office of the Prosecutor sa finile ng National Bureau of Investigation na kaso laban sa akin” (I also received a summons earlier today from the Office of the Prosecutor regarding the case filed against me by the NBI).
Legal Ramifications
NBI Chief Jaime Santiago confirmed that the subpoena serves as a notice for a preliminary investigation into Duterte’s alleged threat against President Marcos. The preliminary hearings have been scheduled for May 9 and May 16, signaling that the case will move swiftly through the justice system.
Political Fallout
Senator Imee Marcos has urged the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate five government officials over their purported roles in Duterte’s arrest and transfer to the International Criminal Court. Meanwhile, inquiries to the Prosecutor’s office remain unanswered as of posting.
Background: The February Incitement Charges
The root of the case dates back to February, when the NBI filed incitement to sedition and grave threat cases after Duterte disclosed in an online press conference that she had instructed someone to kill Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta, and Speaker Martin Romualdez should she be assassinated. This unprecedented pronouncement intensified an already fraught relationship between the Duterte and Marcos dynasties.
What Comes Next?
With the preliminary investigation looming, legal experts warn that Duterte’s confirmation of the summons may shape public opinion ahead of the midterm elections. Observers will watch closely whether she attends the scheduled hearings and how the administration navigates this high-stakes political drama.
Reshuff PH
Latest News In The Philippines brought to you by Reshuff PH
