Vice President Sara Duterte personally appeared before the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday to submit her counter-affidavit in connection with the criminal complaint filed against her over her controversial "kill" remark directed at President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., First Lady Lisa Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) filed the complaint due to Duterte’s speech last year where she allegedly said, "Kill Marcos!" — a statement her camp later clarified was taken out of context. The DOJ has begun its preliminary investigation to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with charges.

In a rare move, the Vice President attended the hearing in person, signaling her willingness to confront the allegations in a legal setting.

"Consistent naman po ang ating Vice President — palagi niyang sinasabi na haharapin niya sa tamang venue ang mga paratang laban sa kanya," said her legal counsel, Atty. Michael Poa. "Ito na po 'yung pagkakataon na 'yun."

(Our Vice President has been consistent — she has always said she will face the accusations against her in the proper venue. This is that opportunity.)

But the legal team of Duterte declined to disclose the specifics of her defense, stating they did not want to preempt the DOJ’s review.

"We will not discuss our defenses yet. We want the prosecutors to assess the case without outside influence," Poa said.

When asked about her confidence in receiving fair treatment, Duterte deferred to her lawyers, who emphasized that "due process must apply to all."

"We expect due process — that is the minimum, not just for the VP but for anyone undergoing this process," Poa said.

Sara, known for her outspoken nature, remained restrained, but nevertheless quipped: "Sabi ng mga abogado ko, huwag daw akong magsalita... Magsasalita ako kapag wala sila!"

(My lawyers told me not to speak... I'll talk when they're not around!)

At the next hearing on 16 May, the NBI is expected to file its reply to Duterte’s counter-affidavit.