The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Wednesday it is investigating potential charges against Vice President Sara Duterte, her staff, and security personnel for alleged violations, including resistance and disobedience to a person in authority under Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code.
PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil confirmed ongoing inquiries into the incident involving lawyer Zuleika Lopez, chief-of-staff of the Vice President, who was rushed to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) from her detention center in the House of Representatives.
Lopez was cited for contempt by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability and detained for initially five days, later extended to 10 days due to alleged disruptions.
The investigation follows claims that members of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) facilitated the unauthorized transfer of Lopez from the VMMC to St. Luke’s Medical Center using a private ambulance.
Marbil disclosed that VPSPG head Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica was caught on video allegedly pushing and assaulting a PNP doctor. This incident “could lead to a direct assault complaint,” according to the PNP Chief.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), under Police Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III, is reviewing the applicability of criminal and administrative charges.
The PNP also sent a formal request from Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to identify other VPSPG personnel allegedly involved in the incident.
Reports suggest that the VPSPG’s actions may have obstructed lawful detention orders from the House of Representatives and disrupted operations at the VMMC and the House Detention Center.
“The rule of law is fundamental to our democratic system. No one, regardless of their position, should be above accountability. The PNP remains committed to ensuring the proper execution of lawful orders and protecting public order,” Marbil said.
The PNP assured the public of a fair investigation, with charges determined based on evidence. “We will ensure that due process is followed, and the law is enforced without bias,” Marbil said. “Let this serve as a reminder that justice must prevail, and no one is above the law.”
