National Security Council and Law Enforcement Investigate Shocking Claims
MANILA – The Philippines’ National Security Council is investigating an alleged assassination threat made by Vice-President Sara Duterte against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., calling it a “matter of national security.”
In a startling statement during a briefing on Nov. 23, Ms. Duterte claimed she had spoken with an assassin and instructed him to kill Mr. Marcos, his wife, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives if she herself were assassinated.
Government Responds to Threat
National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano vowed to treat the threat seriously, emphasizing that protecting the president’s life is of utmost importance.
“Any and all threats against the life of the president shall be validated and considered a matter of national security,” Mr. Ano said in a statement.
In response, the Presidential Security Command has tightened protocols for Mr. Marcos’ protection, while the Philippine National Police launched an investigation into the incident.
Former Allies Turn Rivals
Ms. Duterte and Mr. Marcos were political allies when they secured the presidency and vice presidency in 2022. However, their alliance disintegrated in 2024 over differences in policy, particularly on foreign relations and the handling of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial war on drugs.
Congressional allies of Mr. Marcos are currently probing allegations of corruption tied to Ms. Duterte’s use of public funds during her tenure as education secretary. They are also scrutinizing the deadly anti-drug campaign led by her father, which resulted in more than 6,000 deaths.
Rising Political Tensions
The alleged threat has intensified political tensions between the two highest officials in the nation, raising concerns over stability and governance. Officials are working to determine the credibility of the threat and its implications for the country’s leadership.
Further updates on the investigation are expected as law enforcement and intelligence agencies continue their inquiry.
