Malacañang mentioned that the recommended criminal charges against Vice President Sara Duterte, stemming from the controversial 'death threat' against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez have not been a topic of discussion on their end.
In an ambush interview on Thursday, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated that while they are aware of the matter, the process should be allowed to run its course as it involves a criminal investigation.
He further emphasized that the recommendations are now at the discretion of the Department of Justice (DOJ), and they cannot be directed on what actions to take.
“We are aware of that but we will let the process proceed on its own because this is about a criminal investigation,” said Bersamin.
“The Department of Justice will have the fullest autonomy. We cannot give directions as these matters go,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary declined to comment on Duterte's statement that she did not issue the alleged kill order.
Bersamin emphasized that the Palace has deferred the issue regarding the case to the investigators, if the filing of charges moves forward.
On February 12, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) recommended the filing of charges for grave threats and inciting to sedition against the Vice President in connection with the alleged threat.
The statement was made by Duterte during a virtual press conference in November of last year.
Meanwhile, the Palace classified the statement as an "active threat" and instructed the Presidential Security Group to take appropriate action.
