Justice Sec Remulla: INC rally won't halt NBI probe into VP Duterte's threat

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated on Tuesday that the massive rally by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) would not affect the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) probe into Vice President Sara Duterte's alleged threat against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Remulla emphasized that the investigation is immune to political pressure and must adhere to the law, ensuring equal treatment for everyone involved.

The Justice Secretary also clarified that VP Duterte's announcement about her 2028 plans is unrelated to the ongoing criminal probe.

On Monday, Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon said that the NBI is wrapping up its probe into Duterte over the assassination remark, although NBI Director Jaime Santiago stated on January 13 that the bureau has yet to finalize the investigation.

The INC rally was an exercise of their constitutional right to freedom of expression, which Remulla respects and guards zealously.

On the other hand, the investigation stems from Duterte's comment during a virtual press conference in November last year, where she criticized the House of Representatives' decision regarding her chief of staff, lawyer Zuleika Lopez.