The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced plans to file more cases against Vice President Sara Duterte, Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) head Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica, and others following recent events involving the detention of Atty. Zuleika Lopez.
Initial Complaints
PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo confirmed that complaints for direct assault, disobedience to persons in authority, and grave coercion have already been filed. These stem from disruptions during Lopez’s detention at the House of Representatives and her subsequent transfer to St. Luke’s Medical Center, allegedly facilitated by VPSPG personnel using a private ambulance.
Fajardo hinted at additional charges but declined to provide specifics during her interview on Super Radyo dzBB.
Duterte’s Countercharges
In response, Vice President Duterte announced her intention to file countercharges against the PNP, alleging disobedience, robbery, and kidnapping in connection with the same events.
PNP: “Not Politically-Motivated”
PNP Chief Police General Rommel Marbil emphasized that the legal actions against Duterte and her team are not politically driven.
“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, reflects our duty to the Constitution and the Filipino people,” Marbil stated.
He assured that due process and legal mechanisms are in place to ensure fairness in the ongoing investigations and proceedings.
Context of the Dispute
The PNP claims that Duterte’s staff interfered with the detention order issued by the House of Representatives, causing disruptions at both the detention center and Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC). This includes the alleged “forced transfer” of Lopez, who reportedly fell ill while in custody.
The Office of the Vice President has not yet responded to requests for comment on the ongoing developments.