The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) tentatively rescheduled Vice President Sara Duterte’s appearance before the Office of the Director on December 11 after she failed to appear on Friday morning but came out with a video statement expressing gratitude to professionals helping her through ongoing legal challenges.
Earlier this week, the NBI asked Duterte to explain her viral video clip wherein she claimed to have hired an assassin to kill President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
In a press conference, NBI Director Jaime Santiago said they received a letter from an Office of the Vice President (OVP) lawyer requesting the resetting of her appearance before him.
“Apparently, the Vice President found out late that her appearance before the House Committee Hearing was canceled. She was not able to go here and asked for a resetting,” he explained.
In a video message released late Friday afternoon, Duterte thanked all the lawyers, doctors and other professionals who are helping the personnel affected by the on-going crisis in the office.
“All these back office support shall allow me and other personnel to focus on the OVP thanksgiving, year-end activities, office utilization review, and the calendar year 2025 planning. We assure the Filipino people that even in times of crisis and without resources, we shall stand tall, strong and resilient in our service to the Filipino people. We will not break,” the Vice President said.
Meanwhile, the NBI Director added they will also comply with Duterte’s request for a clear copy of the complaint filed against her, the documents initiated in the investigation, and those possible questions that will be asked.
Santiago stressed that they are studying all possible angles of the case because the NBI still does not have a clear and final charge against her.
Likewise, he underscored that they are investigating the video clip in which Duterte made the assassination remarks as well as the supposed death threat on her life.
The NBI chief emphasized the bureau’s mandate is to step in whenever the life of the President or Vice President is threatened.
Santiago also noted that the NBI is ready to give way to the Office of the Ombudsman decides if it decides to take over the investigation of the Vice President.
As this developed, Assistant Majority Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun expressed disappointment over Duterte’s continued refusal to honor the NBI’s lawful summon, despite having no more valid excuse.
The House Assistant Majority Leader pointed out that the House of Representatives had even canceled a hearing to ensure there were no conflicts with the NBI investigation.
On Thursday, the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability announced the postponement of its hearing scheduled for Friday as a courtesy to allow the Vice President to focus on addressing the legal matter.
Khonghun added that such actions set a dangerous precedent, sending the message that public officials can act above the law while ordinary citizens are expected to comply.
“When high-ranking officials themselves do not follow the law, it erodes people’s trust in our institutions. The people wonder… If you [government leaders] do not obey [our laws], how do you expect us to obey,” he said in Filipino.
Khonghun also emphasized that public service does not only come with privileges but responsibilities as well.
“Those in positions of power should serve as role models, not of evading accountability for their wrongdoings but of demonstrating integrity. Let’s show that in the New Philippines, no one is above the law,” Khonghun concluded.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “VP Sara Duterte ‘no show’ at the NBI to address charges.”
