MANILA, Philippines – A court in the Philippines has issued an arrest warrant for Vice President Sara Duterte. She faces charges for allegedly threatening to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and two others assassinated.
Duterte was impeached by the House of Representatives in May. This relates to similar charges and alleged financial misconduct. Her legal issues pose a serious challenge to her political future, particularly her hopes to run for president in 2028 when Marcos’ term concludes.
Duterte’s lawyer, Paul Lawrence Lim, indicated she will likely post bail to avoid jail while awaiting trial in the Quezon City Regional Trial Court. Lim stated, “She has no intention of evading the law and will continue to exercise all her legal remedies.” Details were not provided.
A threat during a 2024 online conference triggered these charges. Duterte allegedly warned that if she were killed, she would have Marcos, his wife, and then-House Speaker Martin Romualdez assassinated. She later clarified that her statement was a concern for her own safety, not an actual threat.
This incident led to both a criminal investigation and national security concerns. The political alliance between Marcos and Duterte, which combined their political dynasties’ influence during the 2022 elections, has deteriorated rapidly.
Sara Duterte, the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, is embroiled in a political conflict. Her father, Rodrigo, was arrested last year by the International Criminal Court. He faces trial for alleged crimes against humanity on November 30 in The Hague, related to his anti-drugs campaign that reportedly resulted in numerous deaths.
The House of Representatives, largely supportive of Marcos, voted to impeach Duterte for her alleged unexplained wealth, misuse of state funds, and threats against Marcos. Her trial, initiated by the Senate in July, could lead to her permanent disqualification from public office, including running for presidency in 2028.
There are noticeable differences in Marcos and the Dutertes’ geopolitical stances. Marcos aligns with the United States, enhancing defense relations amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea. Rodrigo Duterte, in contrast, fostered close relations with China and Russia, often threatening to cut ties with the U.S.
Sara Duterte has been criticized for her lack of condemnation of China’s aggressive actions against Filipino forces and fishermen in disputed waters.