The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has clarified that it will not provide Vice President Sara Duterte with a list of questions in advance as part of its investigation into her controversial statement about allegedly contracting someone to kill President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Focus of Investigation
NBI Director Jaime Santiago confirmed that the probe will center on Duterte’s claims regarding:
- The individual she allegedly approached to kill the President if an alleged plot against her succeeded.
- The supposed threats to her life that she referenced.
“No, we’re not really giving advance questions,” Santiago said in an interview on Super Radyo dzBB. He noted that while Duterte may anticipate some questions—such as why she issued the controversial threat and whom she purportedly contracted—other details will remain undisclosed until the interview.
Rescheduled Appearance
Originally scheduled to appear before the NBI on November 29, Duterte’s camp requested a postponement, and the hearing was rescheduled for December 11. Her team cited the need for more time to prepare and requested a clear copy of the complaint and related documents, as well as the list of intended questions.
Cooperation Encouraged
Santiago stressed the importance of Duterte’s participation in the investigation to shed light on the alleged threats both to her and to President Marcos.
“If she does not cooperate, we would consider that she has waived her right to provide a reason or justification for her statements,” he said.
The subpoena was issued after Duterte made her controversial remarks during a media conference at the House of Representatives, following the detention of her Chief of Staff and Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez, who was cited in contempt.
Background
The NBI probe stems from Duterte’s claim that she had already given orders to kill President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if an alleged threat to her life were carried out.
The investigation aims to determine the validity and implications of Duterte’s statements, which have sparked political and legal scrutiny.