VICE President Sara Duterte-Carpio confirmed Wednesday that she will attend the preliminary investigation scheduled by the Department of Justice (DOJ) over criminal complaints filed against her by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

“This is part of the legal process, and I will fulfill the necessary requirements,” Duterte told reporters during her visit to the city on April 30, reaffirming her commitment to cooperation and transparency.

The DOJ probe, set for May 9 and 16, stems from Duterte’s alleged remarks made during a Zoom press conference in November 2024.

According to the NBI, she suggested that she ordered the assassination of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Duterte said her legal team is currently preparing a counter-affidavit, which she plans to submit in person and under oath at the DOJ.

Later that evening, Duterte attended a political rally in Barangay Macabalan, where she endorsed several candidates for the 2025 midterm elections.

The event drew a large crowd of supporters, underscoring her continued political influence in Mindanao.

In her speech, Duterte emphasized her commitment to honest governance, regional development, and public service.

She spoke on key initiatives targeting infrastructure, education, and healthcare improvements in the region.

Her endorsements focused on candidates aligned with her vision for a better Mindanao, reinforcing her role as a significant political figure in the region despite the ongoing controversy.