Wazzup Pilipinas!?
On February 12, 2025, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) filed criminal charges against Vice President Sara Duterte, including grave threats and inciting to sedition, before the Department of Justice (DOJ). These charges stem from her November 2024 remarks suggesting she had hired someone to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Background of the Charges
In November 2024, during an online press conference, Vice President Duterte claimed to have engaged a contract killer to target President Marcos, his wife, and Speaker Romualdez in the event of her own assassination. She stated that she had "spoken with a contract killer" to carry out these actions. The administration immediately condemned her statements as "clear and unequivocal" threats against the government, treating them as an "active threat."
Duterte later clarified that her remarks were not serious threats but rather a reflection of her fear for her personal safety after hearing threats against her. She also claimed that the Marcos family was behind the assassination of former senator Ninoy Aquino.
Impeachment Proceedings
In addition to the criminal charges, Vice President Duterte is facing impeachment proceedings initiated by the House of Representatives. On February 5, 2025, 215 members of the House signed an impeachment complaint against her, citing charges such as corruption, plotting to assassinate President Marcos, involvement in extrajudicial killings, and incitement to insurrection and public disorder. The complaint has been transmitted to the Senate, which will serve as the impeachment court.
Political Implications
The legal actions against Vice President Duterte have intensified the political landscape in the Philippines. The impeachment proceedings are expected to commence in June 2025, coinciding with the midterm elections. This timing has added a layer of complexity to the political dynamics, as the elections could influence the outcome of the impeachment trial.
Duterte's father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, has expressed his willingness to join her defense team, highlighting the family's commitment to her political survival. Despite the legal challenges, Vice President Duterte remains a significant figure in Philippine politics, with her actions and statements continuing to shape the nation's political discourse.
Conclusion
The filing of criminal charges and the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte mark a pivotal moment in Philippine politics. As the legal processes unfold, they will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the country's political stability and governance. The coming months are expected to be critical in determining the future trajectory of Vice President Duterte's political career and the broader political landscape in the Philippines.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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