QC Prosecutor dismisses complaints against VP Duterte and security group

The Quezon City Prosecutor's Office dismissed multiple criminal complaints filed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Van Jason Villamor against Vice President Sara Duterte and her security group over an alleged forced transfer of Duterte's chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez, to a private hospital in November 2024.

In a resolution dated January 17 but made public on Tuesday, Assistant City Prosecutor Criscelyn Carayugan Lugo recommended dismissing the complaints for lack of prima facie evidence supporting charges of direct assault, disobedience to authority, and grave coercion.

The OCP found insufficient evidence that Duterte or her security group attacked, used material force, seriously intimidated, or resisted Villamor during Lopez's hospital transfer.

According to the resolution, placing a hand over the chest, pushing, and shoving do not constitute direct assault; Duterte's actions were justified as she responded to what was perceived as Villamor's aggression.

The OCP also noted that Villamor exceeded his authority by attempting to transport Lopez from the House of Representatives to a medical facility without proper authorization.