The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently reviewing the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) probe into alleged threats made by Vice President Sara Duterte late in 2024.
VP Duterte previously claimed to have spoken with individuals who would harm President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez if she were targeted for assassination.
The NBI investigated these statements and submitted its findings, but Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon stated the DOJ must scrutinize the report to determine its adequacy.
The DOJ will assess whether the investigation needs to be returned to the NBI for additional evidence or if it can proceed to preliminary investigation.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago noted that their report was based on the information they gathered, including evidence and testimonies collected during the investigation.
VP Duterte declined the NBI’s invitation for questioning about her statements, leaving the agency to rely on other sources for its findings.
The DOJ clarified that if its evaluation indicates sufficient grounds for preliminary investigation, they will proceed with filing the necessary actions.