VP will attend arraignment on Friday – Poa

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte will be physically present at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court on Friday in connection with the three counts of grave threats filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) against her.

At a press conference yesterday, defense spokesman Michael Poa said Duterte’s physical attendance is required during her arraignment.

“At the arraignment, the accused must be there to enter a plea or not to enter a plea if she so decides,” he said.

On Saturday, Duterte posted P360,000 bail for three counts of grave threats directed at President Marcos, First Lady Liza Marcos and former speaker Martin Romualdez.

Poa accompanied Duterte when she posted bail before the Quezon City RTC Branch 98.

At the same time, Poa was mum after Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Duterte’s camp initially wanted her to be arrested and jailed at Camp Crame, asking about detention arrangements, including food, before deciding to proceed to the court to post bail.

“I cannot comment on that,” Poa added.

Remulla said Duterte’s team apparently wanted to generate images of the Vice President behind bars and in handcuffs.

Poa said he has yet to discuss with Duterte if he will accompany her during her arraignment. – Emmanuel Tupas