FORMER president Rodrigo Duterte was notably absent at the commencement of the preliminary investigation into the grave threats lawsuit brought against him by ACT Teachers Party-List Rep. France Castro.
Instead, legal representatives appeared on his behalf during the proceedings.
The preliminary investigation is scheduled to recommence on December 15 at the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.
Meanwhile, Castro through her attorney, submitted a supplemental affidavit accusing Duterte of renewed grave threats related to another incident, according to abogado.ph.
Allegedly, Duterte reiterated these threats towards her on November 16 during his television program on SMNI Network.
In an interview conducted by SMNI television network on October 10, Duterte discussed the confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) being sought by his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.
He allegedly threatened Castro during the show.
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has requested P500 million, while the Department of Education (DepEd), is seeking P150 million in confidential funds for the year 2024, the same amounts they received for the current year.
It was Castro who led the opposition within the Makabayan bloc against the allocation of confidential funds, particularly for the OVP and DepEd.
This opposition was primarily due to the absence of specific peace and order, defense, and national security mandates for these offices.
Subsequently, the funds were reallocated as a result of the opposition led by Castro.
metrosundaily
