Vice President Sara Duterte has declared her intent to stay in the Philippines, despite the legal challenges and impeachment complaints she is facing. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Duterte emphasized her commitment to remain in the country for the sake of her children, even if it leads to detention.
“No plans to leave or hide”
“I don’t plan to leave the country or hide if there is a warrant for my arrest because my children are here,” Duterte said. “If I get detained, I want to be able to see my children, so I have no plans to leave.”
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has filed complaints against Duterte and several others, including the head of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG), Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica, for charges of direct assault, disobedience, and grave coercion. These complaints relate to incidents at the House of Representatives Detention Center and Veterans Memorial Medical Center involving the detention of her chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez.
Facing legal battles
Duterte is currently dealing with two impeachment complaints tied to the alleged misuse of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd). She expects a third impeachment case to be filed soon.
“We recently had a meeting with the lawyers to discuss arrangements, as we need more legal support. We are preparing for another impeachment complaint,” Duterte revealed.
She also noted that her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, offered financial assistance to cover her legal expenses, an offer she declined.
Christmas discussions with family
The Vice President expects to discuss her current challenges with her father during their family’s Christmas gathering in Davao.
“I haven’t spoken with former President Rodrigo Duterte yet. I anticipate we will meet on December 24 at my mother’s house, and perhaps we’ll talk about these issues then,” she said.
Non-appearance at NBI
On Wednesday morning, Duterte again declined to appear before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to address her controversial statement about ordering the death of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. if she were killed. Instead, her lawyer, Atty. Paul Lim, submitted a letter denying the allegations and explaining her absence.
Despite mounting legal and political pressure, Duterte remains steadfast, signaling her resolve to face the challenges ahead without leaving her children or her country behind.