Security Alarm at House: VP Sara Duterte Defies Protocol, Sparks Lockdown

Vice President Sara Duterte‘s Overnight Stay at Batasang Pambansa Raises Security Concerns

Leaders of the House of Representatives in Manila expressed security concerns after Vice President Sara Duterte stayed overnight at the Batasang Pambansa complex. On Thursday night, she refused to leave despite being asked several times. The Vice President visited Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez, who is currently detained at the complex.

House leaders, including Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales and Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, stated they allowed Duterte to visit Lopez and opened the door for compassion. However, when visiting hours ended at 10 p.m., Duterte did not leave. Instead, she went to her brother, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte’s office, and remained there overnight.

As a precaution, House leadership initiated a lockdown. They emphasized that all officials must follow security protocols to maintain respect for the institution. They noted that the House should not be used as a private space and reiterated their responsibility towards the Filipino people.

The House leaders promised to strengthen security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Duterte’s Request Rejected

House Committee Chair Joel Chua shared that the committee rejected Duterte’s request to stay with Lopez until November 25. Chua mentioned that Lopez is not a detainee and highlighted the need for adequate security for the Vice President due to her high-profile status.

Duterte made her appeal on humanitarian grounds, citing Lopez’s health issues and her need for peace of mind. However, Chua critiqued Duterte’s actions, suggesting a lack of respect for institutional protocols. He stressed that officials must be mindful of their actions, as they reflect their character.

Lopez, facing contempt charges for interfering with a congressional inquiry, argued that her correspondence with the Commission on Audit was a respectful request. The committee, however, decided she would be detained for five days until the next hearing on November 25.