Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has responded to a public threat made by Vice President Sara Duterte, describing it as a criminal plot and vowing to fight against it. Duterte had stated in an online news conference that she had contracted an assassin to kill the president, his wife, and the speaker of the House of Representatives in the event of her own demise, emphasizing that it was not a joke.
Following Duterte's remarks, the national police and military increased the president's security measures, and the justice department announced plans to summon the vice president for an investigation. The National Security Council also deemed the threat a national security concern.
Despite Duterte's attempt to clarify her statement as an expression of concern rather than an actual threat, President Marcos labeled it as a criminal plot that must be addressed. He emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law in a democratic society.
Marcos and Duterte, who were running mates in the May 2022 elections, experienced a significant fallout due to differences in their approaches, particularly regarding China's territorial claims in the South China Sea. Duterte resigned from her positions in the Marcos Cabinet in June, further exacerbating the rift between the two leaders.
The Justice Undersecretary announced that Duterte would be subpoenaed for an investigation, accusing her of being the alleged mastermind behind a premeditated assassination plot. The government pledged to utilize all resources and law enforcement agencies to identify the supposed assassin and ensure accountability.
Under Philippine law, public statements that threaten harm to an individual or their family may constitute a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment and fines. The Constitution dictates that in the event of the president's incapacitation or removal, the vice president assumes office and completes the term.
Duterte expressed readiness to face investigations or impeachment proceedings, while also demanding accountability from Marcos and his allies. The ongoing tensions between the two leaders have escalated, with Duterte accusing Marcos and his associates of corruption and political persecution.
The recent controversy stems from a series of events, including the detention of Duterte's chief of staff by House members allied with Marcos and the subsequent allegations of misuse of public funds. The situation has further strained the already contentious relationship between the president and vice president.
Despite the escalating tensions and allegations, both leaders are expected to navigate the legal processes and political challenges in the coming days as the nation watches closely.
