NBI denies VP Sara harassment claims, files sedition charges

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has denied allegations of harassment against Vice President Sara Duterte, emphasizing that complaints were filed based on legal violations rather than political motives.

During a press conference, NBI Director Jaime Santiago reiterated the bureau's neutrality and impartiality, stating that they are merely fulfilling their duties by filing criminal complaints for inciting to sedition and grave threats.

Santiago dismissed former Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo's argument that the case was politically motivated, asserting that Duterte committed a crime when she allegedly threatened to order someone to kill President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta, and Speaker Martin Romualdez if an alleged plot against her succeeds.

The NBI chief also defended the filing of complaints by citing legal grounds and jurisprudence behind the charges, emphasizing that all Filipinos heard Duterte's threats during a press conference in November last year.

Santiago highlighted that Vice President Duterte was given two opportunities to appear before the NBI but declined both summons, reinforcing the bureau’s commitment to holding everyone accountable for breaking the law.