THE Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified on Thursday that there are no moves to designate Vice President Sara Duterte as a terrorist, following her controversial remarks about a supposed “kill order” against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“She is not being designated as a terrorist,” DOJ Undersecretary Jesse Andres said during an interview on Super Radyo dzBB. “Her act of intimidation is what she is being held accountable for.”
The clarification came after Duterte received a subpoena on Tuesday related to alleged grave threats under Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code, in connection with Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175) and possible violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (RA 11479).
The DOJ emphasized that the subpoena was issued to provide Duterte with an opportunity to explain her statements in a viral video.
Viral Remarks Under Scrutiny
In the video, Duterte allegedly made threatening remarks against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, stating they would face dire consequences if she were killed.
While Duterte has claimed her comments were taken out of context, DOJ officials said the statements are being investigated for potential violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act.
“Section 4 of the Anti-Terrorism Act describes acts punishable under the law, including those intended to cause death or serious harm,” Andres explained. He also noted that the investigation is focused on Duterte’s actions and their potential to incite harm, rather than her position as vice president.
Duterte Alleges Political Targeting
In response, Duterte accused authorities of using the investigation to gain access to her assets and properties, a claim she called a political maneuver. She compared her situation to that of suspended Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., who was designated a terrorist in 2023 following accusations of masterminding the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and other acts of violence.
“They are trying to remove me from my position,” Duterte said in a press briefing, claiming that her security and political standing are being undermined.
DOJ Reassures Due Process
Andres assured the public that the investigation would follow due process, adding that the DOJ would give all involved parties an opportunity to explain their side.
“We are not pre-judging anyone. We will summon the necessary individuals and carefully assess all statements,” he said.
The DOJ reiterated that even threats to commit terrorism are punishable under the law and must be taken seriously. However, Duterte maintained that her remarks were not threats but rather a response to perceived threats against her security.
The controversy has underscored escalating tensions between Duterte and the administration she was once closely allied with. Duterte, Marcos’ running mate in the 2022 elections, admitted their relationship had reached a “point of no return.”