Philippines court dismisses Vice President Duterte's perjury case against aide

MANILA — Prosecutors in Taguig City have rejected perjury complaints brought by Vice President Sara Duterte against Ramil Madriaga, who Duterte identified as her former aide, according to a 19-page decision released Thursday.

The prosecutors determined that despite evidence presented by Duterte disputing Madriaga's assertions, the material provided fell short of the legal threshold required to pursue perjury charges. The decision to dismiss the case represents a significant development in the dispute between the Vice President and the respondent.

The case centered on allegations that Madriaga had made false statements, though specific details of the claims were not detailed in the prosecutor's findings. The dismissal concludes the complaint phase of the proceedings without advancing to further legal action.

The case marks another development in recent months involving the Vice President's legal matters. The prosecutor's office determination appears final at this stage of the process, barring any potential appeals or further action by either party.