Grave threat charges: What makes the crime bailable in Philippines

A Quezon City Regional Trial Court issued an arrest warrant Friday against Vice President Sara Duterte on three counts of grave threats stemming from statements she made during an online press conference on November 23, 2024. The charges relate to remarks the Vice President allegedly made regarding instructions she claimed to have given to another person.

Grave threat, defined under the Philippine Revised Penal Code as threatening another with injury to person, honor, or property, is generally classified as a bailable offense. This means individuals accused of the crime may be released from custody upon posting bail, allowing them to remain free during trial proceedings.

Under Philippine law, bail determinations depend on several factors including the nature and gravity of the offense, the strength of evidence against the accused, and the likelihood of flight. For grave threats specifically, courts typically consider whether the threat was serious and unconditional, and whether it targeted a specific individual or group.

The warrant's issuance represents a significant legal development in the ongoing dispute between the Vice President and other government officials. The case will proceed through the courts as both the prosecution and defense present evidence regarding the November statements in question.