The Department of Justice said Vice President Sara Duterte’s decision to run for president in 2028 will not affect the review of complaints filed against her.
Justice department spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano said prosecutors will remain independent as they evaluate the cases, despite Duterte’s announcement of her presidential plans. He said the review is focused on the weight, scope and complexity of the issues involved in the complaints.
The agency described the case as complicated, which has contributed to the longer time needed to resolve the matter. Prosecutors are examining several aspects of the complaints as part of their ongoing review.
Among the issues under investigation are statements Duterte made in 2024 in which she allegedly mentioned ordering the killing of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez if anything were to happen to her.
Following those remarks, the National Bureau of Investigation filed complaints for inciting to sedition and grave threats against the vice president.
The Department of Justice said the resolution of the case is now awaiting final approval from the division head. Officials reiterated that any political declaration by Duterte, including her planned presidential run, will not be considered in the prosecutors’ decision.
The justice department maintained that the review process will continue to follow legal procedures and remain independent of political developments. Authorities said the decision will be based on the evidence and the legal merits of the complaints once the review is completed.
