Vice President Sara Duterte has been summoned by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to provide an explanation for certain controversial statements she made at a press conference.
The subpoena was delivered to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) in Mandaluyong on Tuesday by NBI agents. According to the summons, Duterte must show up in Pasay on Friday at 9 a.m. to meet with NBI Director Jaime Santiago. In the event of her death, she is anticipated to respond to statements implying a strategy to get revenge on First Lady Liza Marcos, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and Speaker Martin Romualdez.
The OVP’s legal office has confirmed receipt of the subpoena. The NBI is investigating potential violations of Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code, which pertains to grave threats.
Duterte, however, stated she has yet to review the subpoena and asked for time to prepare a response. “I haven’t read the details. Let me review it first before commenting further,” she told reporters.
NBI Director Santiago emphasized the seriousness of the investigation, adding that the agency authenticated the video clip of Duterte’s press conference. He clarified that the clip is not AI-generated or doctored. “The video contains strong statements and accusations. We have preserved it for further examination,” Santiago said.
During the press conference, Duterte claimed her comments were taken out of context and were intended to highlight the threats against her life. She admitted asking someone to take “revenge” should an alleged plot to assassinate her succeed.
Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres clarified that the Vice President does not have immunity from criminal charges. “Only the President is granted immunity during their term. The Vice President can face both administrative and criminal cases,” Andres said.
The NBI continues to investigate the broader implications of Duterte’s remarks and may issue subpoenas to individuals who attended the event. Santiago said the findings will be forwarded to the Department of Justice for further review and possible charges.
Despite the controversy, Duterte maintains her remarks were misinterpreted. She also accused the administration of targeting her and expressed doubts about receiving justice. “This is political harassment. If they file cases, we will respond in court,” she said.
