(1st UPDATE) ‘As expected,’ Vice President Sara Duterte responds to NBI recommendation
MANILA, Philippines – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recommended filing criminal complaints of inciting sedition and grave threat against Vice President Sara Duterte over a controversial statement involving targeted assassinations.
The NBI Director Jaime Santiago announced the recommendation on GMA-7 Superradyo DZBB on Wednesday, February 12. He stated, “We have finally recommended the filing of inciting to sedition and grave threat against the vice president.”
In a message to reporters, Duterte commented, “As expected.” She had previously expressed doubt regarding the fairness of the NBI investigation.
The NBI Investigation
The NBI’s investigation centered on whether Duterte made grave threats under Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, or if she violated the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
Duterte had addressed a question during a midnight virtual press conference on November 23, 2024, where she stated that she had made arrangements such that if she were to be killed, someone would assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez. She clarified that she was not joking at the time but later denied making the threat.
The NBI had summoned Duterte for questioning but she chose not to appear, her lawyer advising her to submit a counteraffidavit instead.
Next Steps in the Criminal Process
The recommendation marks the start of the criminal process, now to be handled by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ will decide when to initiate the preliminary investigation, if necessary, and has the authority to dismiss the case entirely.
If subpoenas are issued for her defense, Duterte will need to be summoned and take an oath on her counteraffidavit. If probable cause is found, charges will be filed against her.
This investigation differs distinctly from the ongoing impeachment proceedings. NBI Director Santiago clarified that, “Impeachment is political; Congress and the Senate will handle that. We will handle the criminal aspect.”
Vice Presidential Immunity
It’s worth noting that vice presidents are immune from legal suit during their term of office, a point raised by Rappler.com. This immunity applies to civil suits, not necessarily criminal investigations.
The contentious situation has drawn significant attention and debate, raising questions about accountability and the potential consequences of high-ranking officials’ statements.
As the legal process unfolds, the public and political stakeholders will closely monitor the progress and outcome of the NBI’s recommendation.
The recommendation represents a critical juncture in the investigation into Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged threats, setting the stage for further legal and political developments.
This case underscores the complexities and potential repercussions of controversial public statements made by high-ranking government officials.
In conclusion, while the vice president has expressed that the recommendation is as expected, the decision now rests with the Department of Justice to proceed with or dismiss the criminal charges.
The ongoing investigation and potential criminal proceedings will likely have far-reaching implications for the political landscape in the Philippines.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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