The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recommended to the Department of Justice (DOJ) the filing of criminal charges against Vice President Sara Duterte in connection with the alleged “death threat” against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the recommended charges against Duterte involve grave threats and inciting to sedition.
The case stems from Duterte’s statement in a November 2024 virtual press conference, where she mentioned that she had arranged for someone to kill President Marcos Jr., House Speaker Romualdez, and the First Lady if she herself were assassinated.
Malacañang classified the statement as an “active threat” and called on the Presidential Security Group (PSG) to take immediate action. President Marcos Jr. also emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and expressed concern over the use of profanity and threats of planned assassinations.
NBI Concludes Investigation, Recommends Charges
The NBI stated that based on their findings, there is sufficient evidence to file charges against Duterte. Director Santiago confirmed that the investigation has been completed and that the bureau is prepared to submit its recommendation to the DOJ for further review.
He added that it is now up to the DOJ to determine whether formal charges will be filed after assessing the NBI’s findings.
Duterte Denies Allegations Amid Growing Political Tensions
Meanwhile, Vice President Duterte in an address to the nation earlier this month has denied the allegations that she issued a threat against the President, the First Lady, and the House Speaker.
