Vice President Duterte’s Gun Licenses Under Scrutiny After Explosive Remarks and Legal Disputes
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is carefully considering the possible revocation of gun permits issued to Vice President Sara Duterte, a high-profile figure whose actions and statements have recently sparked controversy. PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo emphasized on Monday that the decision hinges on the outcome of an ongoing investigation being conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
A Web of Controversy: Alleged Threats, Public Outcries, and Legal Proceedings
The probe was triggered by a series of events, starting with Duterte’s shocking remarks on November 23rd. She publicly declared that she had ordered the assassination of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez should any plot against her materialize.
“Let us wait for the completion of the investigation being conducted by the CIDG to determine whether or not these cases filed against her can be used as a ground for possible revocation or cancellation of her [License to Own and Possess Firearms] and firearm registration,” Fajardo explained during a press briefing.
Duterte later clarified her statement, asserting that it was not intended as a direct threat but rather a way to highlight the alleged threat to her own security. Yet, her initial words ignited a firestorm of public criticism and calls for accountability.
Adding further complexity to the situation, the PNP filed formal complaints against Duterte and others on November 27th. These charges stem from an incident involving the disruption at the House of Representatives Detention Center and Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC), where Duterte’s chief of staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez, was being detained. The specific charges levied against Duterte include direct assault, disobedience, and grave coercion.
Awaiting the Verdict: The CIDG Investigation and Potential Consequences
As the investigation unfolds, the specific type of firearm licenses held by Duterte remains undisclosed. Fajardo declined to provide details, citing the sensitive nature of the ongoing inquiry.
The CIDG is tasked with thoroughly examining all available evidence related to Duterte’s remarks, her involvement in the detention center incident, and any connection these events may have to her gun permits. The investigation’s findings will ultimately determine if there are sufficient grounds to proceed with the revocation or cancellation of her licenses.
The outcome of this investigation carries significant weight. A decision to revoke Duterte’s licenses would mark a serious political development with potentially far-reaching consequences. It would send a powerful message about the accountability of high-ranking officials and the ramifications of their actions, both in words and deeds.
How does the public perception of Vice President sara Duterte’s statements impact the likelihood of the PNP revoking her gun licenses?
## Interview: VP Sara Duterte’s Gun Permits Under Fire
**Host:** Welcome back. Joining us today is Professor Maria Reyes from the Ateneo de Manila University to discuss the controversy surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte’s gun licenses. Professor Reyes, thank you for joining us.
**Professor Reyes:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s start with the latest developments. The Philippine National Police (PNP) is considering revoking Vice President Duterte’s gun permits. What prompted this move?
**Professor Reyes:** This stems from a series of events, the most shocking being Vice President Duterte’s public declaration on November 23rd that she had ordered the assassination of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez should any plot against her materialize [[1](https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/928771/sara-duterte-s-gun-permits-to-be-revoked-pnp-awaits-probe-completion/story/)]. This naturally sparked public outcry and legal challenges.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) is currently investigating the matter, and the PNP has stated they will await the investigation’s completion before deciding on the possible revocation of her gun permits [[1](https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/928771/sara-duterte-s-gun-permits-to-be-revoked-pnp-awaits-probe-completion/story/)].
**Host:** This is attracting significant attention. What are the potential legal grounds for revoking her gun licenses?
**Professor Reyes:** Generally, firearms licenses can be revoked if the holder is deemed a threat to public safety or if they engage in illegal activity. The Vice President’s statements, though controversial, are protected under freedom of speech. However, if the investigation reveals credible evidence suggesting a genuine threat to the individuals she named or that her possession of firearms poses a danger to public safety, the PNP could have grounds to revoke her licenses.
**Host:** This situation raises complex legal and political questions. How do you see this unfolding?
**Professor Reyes:**
This situation is highly fluid and its outcome remains uncertain. Much depends on the findings of the CIDG investigation and how the PNP interprets the evidence. It’s undoubtedly a delicate situation given the Vice President’s position. The public is closely watching, and this case has the potential to set a precedent for future cases involving firearms and freedom of speech.
**Host:** Professor Reyes, thank you for sharing your insights with us.
**Professor Reyes:** It was my pleasure.
