VP Duterte’s Threat Against Marcos Triggers Investigation
A potential assassination plot involving Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has escalated into a national security crisis. Duterte’s controversial remarks about ordering an assassin to kill Marcos, his wife, and the Philippine House speaker if she were harmed, have prompted swift responses from law enforcement and government officials.
Security Council to Investigate the Threat
The Philippine Security Council announced an investigation into the alleged threat, calling it a matter of “national security.” National Security Adviser Eduardo Año emphasized the seriousness of the situation, vowing to validate and address any credible threats against the president.
“Any and all threats to the life of the president shall be considered a priority,” Año said in a statement.
The Presidential Security Group (PSG) has tightened protocols around Marcos, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a separate probe into the matter.
The Origins of Duterte’s Threat
Duterte’s comments came during a fiery press briefing on Saturday. She revealed that she had spoken with an assassin and instructed them to target Marcos, his wife, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if her life were endangered.
The vice president’s remarks stemmed from a dispute with lawmakers over her chief-of-staff, who was jailed for allegedly obstructing a probe into Duterte’s purported misuse of public funds.
The friction marks a sharp turn in the once-strong political alliance between Duterte and Marcos, who were elected to the nation’s top offices in 2022 with overwhelming support.
Marcos Allies Demand Accountability
Congressional allies of President Marcos are now investigating Duterte’s alleged financial irregularities during her tenure as education secretary. These investigations follow broader inquiries into her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, whose controversial anti-drug campaign left over 6,000 people dead.
Both Rodrigo and Sara Duterte deny any wrongdoing. However, the fallout from these probes appears to have strained the political partnership between the Marcos and Duterte families.
Political Fallout Deepens the Rift
The Duterte-Marcos alliance has fractured over disagreements on key issues, including foreign policy and the handling of Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs. Duterte’s resignation from her Cabinet post in June marked the start of a public split, with both camps trading subtle and overt accusations since.
Her recent remarks have deepened tensions, with many interpreting them as a direct challenge to the Marcos administration.
Legal Consequences Loom for Duterte
The Presidential Communications Office confirmed that Duterte’s comments are under investigation by the justice ministry. “If the evidence warrants, this could lead to eventual prosecution,” Marcos’ office said in a statement.
The vice president’s threats could violate Philippine laws against incitement and conspiracy. Analysts suggest Duterte’s remarks, whether intended as hyperbole or not, could have severe legal and political consequences.
Public Reaction to Duterte’s Remarks
Duterte’s comments have drawn mixed reactions from the public. Critics condemned her for making inflammatory statements that could destabilize the government. Supporters defended her as being pushed to the edge by political pressures and alleged attacks on her character.
“She has been under scrutiny for months, and this might be her way of fighting back,” said political analyst Luis Moreno.
However, security experts have warned that such rhetoric undermines public trust and could embolden extremist elements.
Security Measures Heightened
In response to the incident, the PSG has increased security measures for President Marcos. Law enforcement agencies are also monitoring any potential threats against other government officials.
“While we are investigating, the immediate focus is to ensure the safety of all parties involved,” Año stated.
The alleged assassination threat by Vice President Sara Duterte against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has thrown the Philippine political landscape into turmoil. As investigations unfold, the fallout could have lasting implications for the country’s leadership and stability.
The incident underscores the fragility of political alliances and the importance of accountability in public office. Whether Duterte’s remarks were a serious threat or a political ploy, they have cast a shadow over the nation’s governance at a critical time.
