Manila, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte of the Philippines made a bold and shocking declaration on Saturday, revealing that she had arranged for an assassin to target President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Duterte emphasized that her threat was serious and not to be taken lightly.

The Palace officially recognized the “active threat” against President Marcos and referred the matter to a special presidential security force for prompt action. Security measures for Marcos were heightened as the threat was deemed a matter of national security.

Despite Duterte’s attempt to downplay her remarks, claiming they were only expressions of concern for her safety, the Philippine Constitution recognizes the Vice President as the successor in the event of the President’s death, permanent disability, removal, or resignation. Duterte ran as Marcos’ vice-presidential candidate in the 2022 elections, a partnership that quickly soured over significant policy disagreements.

The rift between Duterte and Marcos escalated due to differing stances on various issues, particularly China’s actions in the South China Sea. Duterte’s resignation as education secretary and head of an anti-insurgency body underscored the strained relationship between the two leaders.

Accusations of corruption and political persecution further fueled Duterte’s animosity towards Marcos, his wife, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. The recent uproar was sparked by the detention of Duterte’s chief of staff, prompting the Vice President to launch a scathing attack against Marcos and his allies.

In a fiery online press conference, Duterte unleashed a tirade against Marcos, branding him as incompetent and deceitful. She also hinted at a possible plot on her life, expressing determination that those involved in any harm against her would face consequences.

As tensions run high in the Philippines, military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner emphasized the military’s commitment to neutrality and respect for democratic institutions. Calls for unity and resistance against divisiveness reverberated amidst the political turmoil.

Duterte’s lineage as the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding political drama. The elder Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, marked by extrajudicial killings, has drawn international scrutiny and investigations into possible human rights violations.