The legal battle surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte intensified as her team petitioned a Quezon City Regional Trial Court to dismiss grave threats charges against her. This plea comes in light of her controversial comments during a November 2024 press conference.
Key Arguments in Court
Duterte's counsel, Paul Lawrence Lim, argued that while impeachable officials are not entirely immune from prosecution, legal actions should be postponed until after their terms. He stated, "This does not mean they are barred from being sued; it simply means that any legal action may not proceed while they are still in office."
If a sitting vice president may be indicted and prosecuted, then other incumbent impeachable officers... may also be indicted and prosecuted.
Paul Lawrence Lim, Duterte's Counsel
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged Duterte with three counts of grave threats under Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code and related sections from the Cybercrime Prevention Act. The DOJ argues that only the sitting President is shielded from criminal prosecution under the Constitution.
The stakes are high for Duterte, whose legal troubles coincide with ongoing impeachment proceedings against her, which are currently being heard by the Senate.
Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon emphasized the distinct nature of criminal cases and impeachment processes, asserting that the court will ultimately determine whether the case can move forward regardless of Duterte's status.