The Quezon City Regional Trial Court has denied for lack of merit Vice President Sara Duterte’s motion to defer or recall the arrest warrant against her, paving the way for the trial on three counts of grave threats against her.
Justice Department spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez said the court found probable cause to hold Duterte for trial on all three counts of grave threats and ordered the issuance of the arrest warrant.
The ruling was issued by Branch 98 of the Quezon City RTC on Sept. 4, 2026.
“The Department of Justice notes the Resolution issued today, 04 September 2026, by Branch 98 of RTC of Quezon City denying the Motion by the accused Vice President Sara Z. Duterte to defer or recall the warrant of arrest against her in the criminal case for Grave Threats,” Martinez said.
“In the same Resolution, the Court found probable cause to hold the accused for trial on all three counts of Grave Threats and ordered the issuance of a warrant of arrest,” he added.
“The Department respects the Court’s ruling and reaffirms its commitment to the rule of law,” Martinez continued.
With the motion denied, the DOJ said the criminal case will now proceed to trial.
Asked about the bail, Martinez confirmed that Duterte may post P120,000 for each count.
According to Martinez, as a matter of procedure, warrants of arrest are transmitted directly by the Court to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for implementation.#