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Advocates Philippines
Justice Department Disappointed As VP Sara Duterte Skips NBI Summons
Photo credit: Congress PH
The Department of Justice (DOJ) expressed disappointment over Vice President Sara Duterte's failure to face the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for the second time. This hearing was related to her controversial statement about allegedly talking to an assassin regarding President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
According to DOJ Undersecretary Jesse Andres, this would have been the perfect opportunity for VP Sara to explain her side. However, her absence, despite citing threats to her safety, meant the NBI couldn’t fully evaluate the situation.
“It’s unfortunate that she didn’t use this chance to provide context and share the truth. She could’ve clarified things with the NBI, allowing us to assess whether there’s a case or not,” Andres said.
VP Sara has made it clear in her previous statements that she has no regrets over her alleged threats. For the DOJ, this raises questions.
“It almost feels like she’s confirming her past remarks. If she has no regrets about what she said, then she should’ve come to the NBI and provided the proper context,” Andres added.
Despite VP Sara skipping the summons, the DOJ said they’re still open to receiving a sworn statement from her at any time. However, they assured the public that the NBI investigation would continue, as they already have strong evidence, including videos from the live Zoom press conference and subpoenas issued to other attendees.
“Whether she speaks or not, the DOJ will continue to fulfill its duty to protect the people,” Andres emphasized.
For now, the ball remains in VP Sara’s court, but the investigation moves forward with or without her cooperation.
According to DOJ Undersecretary Jesse Andres, this would have been the perfect opportunity for VP Sara to explain her side. However, her absence, despite citing threats to her safety, meant the NBI couldn’t fully evaluate the situation.
“It’s unfortunate that she didn’t use this chance to provide context and share the truth. She could’ve clarified things with the NBI, allowing us to assess whether there’s a case or not,” Andres said.
VP Sara has made it clear in her previous statements that she has no regrets over her alleged threats. For the DOJ, this raises questions.
“It almost feels like she’s confirming her past remarks. If she has no regrets about what she said, then she should’ve come to the NBI and provided the proper context,” Andres added.
Despite VP Sara skipping the summons, the DOJ said they’re still open to receiving a sworn statement from her at any time. However, they assured the public that the NBI investigation would continue, as they already have strong evidence, including videos from the live Zoom press conference and subpoenas issued to other attendees.
“Whether she speaks or not, the DOJ will continue to fulfill its duty to protect the people,” Andres emphasized.
For now, the ball remains in VP Sara’s court, but the investigation moves forward with or without her cooperation.
Dec 12, 2024
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