THE Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Sunday that additional cases are set to be filed against Vice President Sara Duterte and others, following initial complaints of direct assault, disobedience, and grave coercion.
PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo revealed that the new complaints stem from disruptions that occurred during the detention of Atty. Zuleika Lopez at the House of Representatives.
Lopez reportedly fell ill during her detention, prompting what the PNP described as an unauthorized transfer to a private hospital.
“We expect that more cases will be filed in addition to grave coercion, direct assault, and disobedience to persons in authority,” Fajardo said during an interview on Super Radyo dzBB. However, she declined to specify the additional charges being prepared against Duterte and her staff.
Alleged Interference in Detention
The controversy arose after personnel from the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG), led by Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica, reportedly facilitated the “forced transfer” of Lopez from Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) to St. Luke’s Medical Center using a private ambulance.
The PNP argued that these actions interfered with the detention order issued by the House of Representatives and disrupted operations at both the detention center and VMMC.
Duterte to File Countercharges
In response, Vice President Duterte announced her intention to file cases against the PNP, accusing the police of disobedience, robbery, and kidnapping in connection with the same events.
Not Politically-Motivated
PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil stressed that the cases against Duterte and others were not politically motivated. “The PNP remains committed to its mandate to enforce the law without fear or favor.
The filing of cases against any individual, regardless of status or political affiliation, is a reflection of our duty to the Constitution and the Filipino people,” Marbil said in a statement.
He added that mechanisms are in place to ensure fairness and due process in handling the cases.
The escalating legal battle has drawn widespread attention, raising questions about the balance of power between government institutions and the rule of law.
Both sides continue to defend their actions, vowing to pursue their respective legal remedies.