Quezon City Prosecutor Dismisses Assault Complaint Against VP Sara Duterte

The Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office has dismissed the assault complaint lodged by the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) against Vice President Sara Duterte, her security chief Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica, and others. The case arose from a November 23, 2024, incident involving the hospital transfer of Zuleika Lopez, the Chief of Staff of the Office of the Vice President (OVP).

Incident Overview

Lopez, detained at the House of Representatives during an inquiry into the OVP’s fund usage, reportedly suffered a panic attack upon learning she was to be transferred to the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong City. She was initially taken to Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) for medical attention.

Vice President Duterte and her security team intervened, leading to Lopez’s transfer to St. Luke’s Medical Center, a private hospital, despite orders from the House committee for Lopez to remain under its jurisdiction. The incident sparked controversy, particularly regarding Duterte’s involvement and her team’s handling of the transfer.

Charges Filed

The QCPD filed multiple complaints, accusing Duterte, Lachica, and other unnamed individuals of direct assault, disobedience to authority, and grave coercion. The allegations centered on Colonel Lachica, who was said to have pushed Lieutenant Colonel Van Jason Villamor, a police doctor, during the transfer. The Philippine National Police (PNP) submitted video evidence purportedly showing Lachica’s physical altercation with Villamor.

Prosecutor’s Decision

After a thorough examination of the evidence and testimonies, the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office ruled that there was insufficient basis to proceed with the charges. The findings emphasized a lack of probable cause to support claims of assault, coercion, or defiance of authority.

The ruling has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters of Duterte praised the decision, claiming her actions prioritized Lopez’s health and safety. They argued that intervention was necessary given Lopez’s medical condition.

Critics, however, raised concerns about possible double standards in the judicial process, underscoring the importance of holding all public officials accountable, regardless of rank.

Broader Implications

This case highlights the complexities in balancing authority and institutional autonomy within government. As the dust settles, observers are keen to see how such incidents might shape future relationships between law enforcement and public officials, emphasizing the need for clarity in legal boundaries.