QC court rejects Duterte's bid to remove judge in threats case

The Quezon City Regional Trial Court rejected a motion filed by Vice President Sara Duterte seeking the recusal of the judge presiding over her grave threat case. Department of Justice Spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez acknowledged the court's ruling, stating that the bench had formally denied the accused's request for the judge's inhibition from the proceedings.

The motion to inhibit is a legal maneuver typically filed when a party believes a judge may have bias or conflict of interest that could compromise the fairness of the trial. By denying the motion, the court signaled its confidence that the presiding judge can handle the case impartially.

The grave threat case against the Vice President has drawn significant public attention given her high office and prominence in Philippine politics. The court's decision to proceed with the current judge suggests the trial will continue without judicial changes, barring any further legal challenges.

Martinez's confirmation of the court order marks another procedural milestone in the case. The rejection of Duterte's recusal motion clears the path for the trial to move forward under the current bench.