The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is finalized to testify before the House Committee on Justice regarding its probe into alleged threats made by Vice President Sara Duterte against the country’s top leaders.
Director Melvin Matibag confirmed on Saturday, April 25, that the agency will present evidence concerning statements directed at President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
The investigation notably covers both physical pronouncements and digital footprints.
“The NBI at that time conducted an investigation on that matter, the threats that were made against President Bongbong, the First Lady (Liza Araneta-Marcos) and Speaker (then House speaker Martin Romualdez). The investigation includes those in the digital, the pronouncements on social media,” Matibag stated during a press briefing in Quezon City.
The NBI’s role in the impeachment proceedings follows a completed internal review that led to a formal complaint being lodged with the National Prosecution Service of the Department of Justice (DOJ).
During the upcoming hearing, the bureau expects to provide authenticated materials and a comprehensive assessment of the Vice President’s statements.
Legal investigators are focusing on potential breaches of the Revised Penal Code, specifically looking into grave threats and inciting to sedition.
Matibag underscored the agency’s commitment to security, noting that the bureau does not take such rhetoric lightly.
“We are treating all threats, not only to the President, as serious. These matters are immediately investigated once they reach the NBI,” Matibag stressed.
As part of the evidence-gathering process, the agency also reviewed Duterte’s counter-affidavit alongside various online posts and investigative reports.
NBI officials are scheduled to appear before the House Justice panel this Wednesday to offer lawmakers a technical and legal breakdown of their findings.