Twice during a Senate probe into the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Vice President Sara Duterte asked the AFP why it did not take action against Philippine law enforcement. But Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr., a former ally of the Dutertes, quickly responded. According to him, the AFP is not authorized to interfere in police operations unless they are asked for support.
During the Senate hearing on March 20, chaired by Senator Imee Marcos, VP Duterte participated via video call from the Netherlands. He reiterated his claim that his father was not given due process and criticized the AFP for its silence on the incident. Before leaving for a virtual press conference, VP Duterte again asked why the AFP did not act.
Teodoro reiterated that the AFP is only following the orders of civilian law enforcement and cannot deviate from the authority of the government. According to him, “The AFP is not doing nothing. The AFP is only supporting the PNP, a civilian law enforcement agency.” He also refused to interpret VP Duterte’s statement, stressing that the AFP must remain under civilian authority.
The Senate probe was launched by Senator Imee Marcos to clarify the role of the ICC, Interpol, and various government agencies in the arrest of Duterte. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the arrest of the former president was legal and in accordance with Philippine laws and its agreements with foreign countries.
Apart from that, VP Duterte and Teodoro also have a connection. According to the report, one of the positions VP Duterte wanted when President Marcos Jr.'s administration began was to be the Defense Secretary. Instead, he was given the Department of Education, which he later vacated—signaling the official end of their alliance in the 2022 elections.
