Philippine court issues arrest warrant for Vice President Sara Duterte
A Philippine court on Friday issued an arrest warrant for Vice President Sara Duterte in a criminal case over threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the first lady and the former speaker of the House of Representatives.
Three counts of threats
As Daily Maverick reports, a court of first instance issued the warrant in a case involving three counts of grave threats. For each count, the court set bail at 120,000 Philippine pesos, or about $1,900.
The case is linked to Duterte's statements in November 2024. At the time, she said that she had spoken with an assassin and ordered him to kill Marcos, his wife and his cousin, who was then heading the House of Representatives, if she were killed. The vice president denies threatening them.
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Defense position and impeachment
Duterte's lawyer said that she has no intention of evading the law, regardless of the jurisdiction issue, and will continue to use all available legal remedies.
The threat allegations are also included in an impeachment complaint against Duterte, which is being considered by the Senate sitting as an impeachment court. If found guilty, Duterte could be removed from office, and her participation in the 2028 presidential election could be at risk. In addition, Duterte is accused of improper use of public funds while serving as vice president and education secretary; she denies any wrongdoing.
