In a shocking public statement, Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte threatened to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assassinated if harm came to her.
Breitbart reported that Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has escalated political tensions to alarming levels by publicly threatening the assassination of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
This unprecedented threat was made during an online news conference where Duterte expressed her concerns for her own life and the safety of her supporters.
Sara Duterte made it clear that her threat was serious, stating, "Don’t worry about my security because I’ve talked with somebody. I said ‘If I’m killed, you’ll kill BBM, Liza Araneta, and Martin Romualdez. No joke, no joke." She emphasized the gravity of her directive, “I’ve given my order, ‘If I die, don’t stop until you’ve killed them.’ And he said, ’ Yes.’”
Following the Vice President's threats, the Philippine government took swift action to increase security measures for President Marcos and his family.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin labeled Duterte's comments as an "active threat" and promptly involved the elite Presidential Security Command, declaring the issue a matter of national security.
The Presidential Security Command, together with other law enforcement agencies, coordinated efforts to bolster the security detail around the President, his family, and other officials threatened by Duterte. This move reflects the government's serious approach to any threats against its members, especially those coming from such high-ranking officials.
The relationship between President Marcos and Vice President Duterte, who was elected on a platform of national unity in May 2022, has significantly deteriorated.
Conflicts started brewing over various issues including policy approaches towards China’s actions in the South China Sea, which have been a point of contention.
In a dramatic turn of events, Sara Duterte resigned from her positions in the Marcos cabinet in June, citing disagreements and accusing Marcos, his wife, and Speaker Romualdez of corruption and political persecution. Her chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez, was recently detained by House members on charges of obstructing a congressional inquiry, and then hospitalized.
Under Philippine law, the comments made by Vice President Duterte could be construed as criminal threats, which might prompt legal actions against her. These remarks have not only stirred political unrest but have also prompted widespread concern over the stability of Philippine democracy.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines stated Gen. Romeo Brawner, advocating for peace and unity. He urged, "We call for calm and resolve. We reiterate our need to stand together against those who will try to break our bonds as Filipinos.”
Sara Duterte, the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte who is under International Criminal Court investigation for his anti-drugs campaign, continues to be a polarizing figure in Philippine politics. Her aggressive stance and recent threats may stem partially from her political lineage and the legacy of her father's presidency.
As the situation unfolds, the implications of Duterte's threats have prompted discussions about the ramifications for Filipino political stability and international perceptions.
The government's handling of this crisis will be crucial in maintaining national security and the rule of law.
Vice President Sara Duterte's public threat to assassinate President Marcos and other top officials if harmed has led to heightened security measures and a severe national security response.
The deteriorating relations between Duterte and Marcos, now punctuated by Duterte's radical accusations and potential criminal threats, underscore a deepening political crisis in the Philippines. Understanding the full scope of this crisis requires watching how these threats will affect the stability of the nation’s governance and democratic integrity.