Arrest Warrant Issued for Vice President Duterte in Grave Threats Case

Arrest Warrant Issued for Vice President Duterte in Grave Threats Case

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | September 4, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – A Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 98 has issued an arrest warrant for Vice President Sara Duterte in connection with a grave threats case. This legal development arises from a statement made by the Vice President, in which she allegedly discussed orchestrating the deaths of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, should she herself be assassinated.

Duterte’s legal counsel, Paul Lawrence Lim, affirmed that the Vice President “has no intention of evading the law” and is prepared to pursue all available legal remedies.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 98 denied Duterte’s motion to defer or recall the warrant, citing a “lack of merit.”

According to DOJ spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez, the court found probable cause to proceed with a trial on three counts of grave threats, thus ordering the issuance of the arrest warrant. Martinez clarified that this is the only warrant issued, despite earlier motions to “defer or recall.”

The Vice President’s lawyers have indicated their intent to post bail promptly.

Legal Arguments and Context

The case centers on remarks made by Vice President Duterte during an online briefing. She has since asserted that her statements were taken out of context. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) previously characterized Duterte’s alleged grave threats as “serious and real.”

Duterte’s camp sought to dismiss the grave threats cases by arguing a lack of jurisdiction. Her legal team contended that, as an impeachable officer, the Vice President is subject to removal from office solely through impeachment proceedings and therefore should not face criminal charges.

Notably, the alleged grave threat is also cited as one of the articles of impeachment in an ongoing Senate trial against the Vice President.

Official Reactions

Malacañang has stated its respect for the court’s order. Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro affirmed, “The Palace respects any decision or order from the court.”

While the complaint for inciting sedition against the official over her remark was previously dismissed, the grave threats charges have now escalated to the issuance of an arrest warrant. The ongoing legal proceedings and impeachment trial underscore the significant implications of this case for the Vice President and the political landscape.

*         *         *

Influence the Influential. Power Truth. TheNATIONWEEK.com

More than news: we are a defining force in independent journalism, delivering rigorous, unbiased reporting to an engaged, opinion-shaping audience that values integrity. Partner with us to align your brand with trust, reach discerning leaders, and amplify your impact. Your message. Our mission. Unrivaled engagement. Email nationweek@yahoo.com today.