Former presidential legal counsel Atty. Salvador Panelo has dared Senator Imee Marcos to file charges against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and other officials who allegedly ordered the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In an interview with Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) on Tuesday, March 25, Panelo challenged Imee to stop pretending and act decisively.
“Ang dapat sa ‘yo [Imee] magsalita ka ng araw-araw, minu-minuto, at sumama ka…idemanda mo ‘yong mga nag-aresto ng ilegal,” said Panelo.
He further added, “Idemanda mo si [Nicolas] Torre, idemanda mo ‘yang kapatid mo, isama mo na kung totoo ‘yang sinasabi mo. Hindi pupuwedeng palagi na lang tayong nagbabalat-kayo. Gawin mo ‘yong totoo.”
Imee Marcos’ Call for Investigation
On March 17, Senator Imee Marcos called for an urgent investigation regarding Duterte’s arrest. She expressed concerns about the legality of the actions and demanded answers from authorities.
However, in a separate interview on the same day, Panelo dismissed the need for an investigation. He claimed that Senator Imee already knew that the arrest was illegal and that there was no need to prolong the issue.
“Alam naman daw ng senadora na ilegal ang pagdakip sa dating pangulo,” Panelo remarked, implying that Imee should act instead of merely calling for an investigation.
Panelo’s statements fuel the ongoing political tension between the Marcos and Duterte camps. His comments suggest that Imee’s call for an investigation was insufficient and that she should take more decisive legal action.
The growing divide between former allies has led to increasing speculation about the relationship between the Marcos administration and Duterte’s supporters. Panelo’s challenge pressures Imee Marcos to prove her commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
As the situation unfolds, the public is watching closely to see if Senator Imee Marcos will take Panelo’s advice and file charges. With political tensions already high, her next move could have significant implications for the ongoing power dynamics between the two political families.