No Security Threats to Duterte, Says the Palace
RODRIGO DUTERTE – The Palace has dismissed claims that the former president’s life is at risk if he returns to the Philippines from his detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands.
This statement was issued in response to Vice President Sara Duterte’s warning that her father could face the same fate as the late Senator Ninoy Aquino, who was assassinated upon his arrival in the country.
During a press briefing at Malacañang, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro questioned the basis of such claims. She expressed surprise over the allegations and asked where these supposed threats were coming from. “Nakapagtataka, saan ba nakukuha itong mga kuwento na ganito? Saan po nakukuha ang pagkukumpara kay dating Ninoy Aquino? Saan nakukuha iyong mga threats?” Castro said.
She further explained that even Vice President Duterte’s claim about a threat to her own life remains unverified. Authorities, including the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), have not received any evidence supporting these concerns.
According to Castro, concrete proof is necessary before making such serious claims. As far as the Palace is aware, there is no information indicating any threat against former President Duterte. She emphasized that these statements have only been heard from the Duterte camp. “Kailangan po kasi natin ng mga materyales na mga ebidensiya bago magsagawa ng ganitong mga klaseng statements, wala pong katotohanan ‘yan,” Castro added.
Meanwhile, former Senator Leila de Lima was among those who responded to Sara Duterte’s statement. She noted that Ninoy Aquino returned to the Philippines fully aware of the risks to his life, driven by his dedication to the nation, democracy, and the Filipino people. In contrast, she described Duterte’s situation as a mere attempt to evade accountability. “Justice isn’t swayed by melodrama, only by truth. And history will always know the difference,” she stated.