THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally released a statement addressing the issuance of an arrest warrant against Vice President Sara Duterte, bringing clarity to the procedural developments and the legal basis behind the order.
The department’s announcement comes amid widespread public interest and speculation, seeking to ensure transparency while respecting the due process rights of all parties involved. The DOJ emphasized that the warrant is a product of regular judicial proceedings and follows established legal norms, underscoring that no individual is above the law regardless of position or rank.
According to the DOJ statement, the warrant was issued by the competent court after finding sufficient basis to proceed with the charges filed against the vice president.
The department clarified that the issuance follows standard procedure once a judge determines there is probable cause to believe an offense has been committed and that the respondent is likely guilty of it. The DOJ noted that the warrant does not imply a finding of guilt but rather serves the purpose of ensuring the accused appears before the court to answer the charges and defend themselves in a fair trial.
The department also assured the public that all legal processes are being strictly followed and that the case will proceed in accordance with the rules of court and the Constitution.
It called for sobriety and respect for the rule of law amid the heightened public interest, urging the public to rely only on official and verified information to avoid misinformation or unnecessary unrest. The DOJ further stated that it stands ready to explain the legal process to the public while allowing the proceedings to take their proper course without interference.
The Vice President’s legal team has been duly notified of the warrant and is expected to respond accordingly, either by voluntarily submitting to the court’s jurisdiction or filing appropriate legal remedies.
The DOJ reaffirmed its commitment to upholding both accountability and fairness, noting that the justice system is designed to protect the rights of the accused as much as it serves the interest of the public and the state. Further updates will be released as the case moves forward, the department added.
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