SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian on Sunday called on authorities to give serious attention to Vice President Sara Duterte’s reported concerns over threats and harassment, following the issuance of an arrest warrant against her by a Quezon City court.
Speaking on the matter, Gatchalian emphasized that any threat to the life and security of the vice president and her family must be treated with urgency and respect. “If there are indeed threats, if the Vice President feels or perceives danger to herself and her family, this should be taken seriously,” Gatchalian said.
The Senate President’s statement comes amid Duterte’s public remarks expressing fear for her safety and distrust toward law enforcement and the courts after she surrendered and posted bail on Saturday.
Duterte had claimed that harassment and threats have extended even to the residences of her mother and child, raising concerns about her well‑being while the legal proceedings are ongoing. Gatchalian’s appeal reinforces the need for authorities to investigate these reported threats thoroughly and ensure that due process is accompanied by adequate protection of the respondent’s security.
Gatchalian’s call balances respect for the judicial process with the practical necessity of protecting public officials from harm. While the legal system must proceed without fear or favor, it also has a responsibility to ensure that individuals facing trial are able to participate fully and safely in the proceedings. Authorities are expected to look into Duterte’s security concerns and take appropriate measures, allowing the case to move forward fairly while upholding the state’s duty to protect every citizen — including the vice president—from threats and intimidation.
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