Metro Manila, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte said she does not regret making her “kill” remarks against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and some family members despite facing a number of possible cases related to these.
“Buti na iyong alam nila… [It’s better that they know it] I will not die in vain,” Duterte said in a media briefing after holding a thanksgiving with reporters on Wednesday, Dec. 11.
The vice president snubbed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) probe again, saying she does not expect a fair investigation from government agencies. Duterte first skipped the agency’s subpoena on Nov. 29, citing her supposed appearance at a House inquiry on her confidential fund spending.
Just like the first subpoena, Duterte submitted a letter to the NBI. The bureau is investigating the vice president for alleged grave threats and possible violation of the anti-terrorism law (ATL).
During the interview, Duterte said given recent pronouncements of the president and the Department of Justice, cases will be filed against her whether she attends the probe or not.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier described Duterte’s remarks as a “criminal attempt” that should never go unpunished. A justice official, meanwhile, previously told NewsWatch Plus her statements are punishable under the ATL.
The vice president said she is ready to face any arrest warrant.
“I do not plan to leave the country or I do not plan to hide if there will be a warrant of arrest mainly because my children are here. If I will be detained, I want to be able to see my children,” she said.
Private security service
Meanwhile, Duterte said she is exploring the possibility of hiring a private security service should the military decide to replace more of her security detail.
The vice president said she will no longer accept replacements in her security group.
Duterte said her protection detail counts over 330 military personnel. In July, the Philippine National Police pulled out 75 cops from her team.
By tradition, the presidential and vice presidential security groups are composed of military and police personnel.
“Security is fundamentally a trust and confidence position so it’s difficult to entrust your life to somebody you do not know and was put there by somebody you do not trust,” she said.
The vice president maintained there are threats to her life, and has previously accused House Speaker Martin Romualdez of wanting her dead.
