Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated that the recent Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) rally would not interfere with the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) probe into Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials.
“I don’t think so. We have to view the law as an equalizer for everyone, and no special favors can be granted based on status,” Remulla said during an ambush interview.
Rally’s Purpose
The rally, which police reported drew 1.8 million attendees nationwide, was organized to show support for President Marcos’ opposition to impeaching Duterte. However, INC spokesperson Edwil Zabala clarified that the gathering was non-political and aimed at promoting peace.
Remulla acknowledged the rally participants’ right to freedom of expression.
“I’m not concerned about their intentions. They are free to express themselves, and we respect and zealously guard that freedom,” he said.
Progress of the Probe
According to Remulla, the NBI’s report on the case will soon be submitted to the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“Of course, the evaluation will be based on the merits of the case or cases,” he said.
The investigation into Duterte focuses on alleged grave threats under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and possible violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, following accusations that she issued a kill order against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Duterte, who has denied appearing before the NBI, argued she does not expect fair treatment from the agency. She also claimed her remarks were “maliciously taken out of logical context.”