Former Vice Presidential Aide Identifies Alleged Contracted Hitmen in Explosive Impeachment Testimony
In a startling development from the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed on Thursday, April 16, 2026, that Ramil Madriaga, the alleged former aide of the Vice President, has named several "contracted hitmen" in his testimony. This revelation adds a dramatic new layer to the already contentious hearings.
Remulla's Radio Interview Reveals Critical Details
During a radio interview, Secretary Remulla confirmed that identifying these individuals was an option considered from the outset of the investigation. "It was an option from the very start. In fact, may mga na-name na siya na contracted hitmen. I think it will come out in the future testimonies, lalabas pa," Remulla stated, indicating that further details are expected to emerge as the hearings progress. This statement underscores the gravity of the allegations being presented before the House Committee on Justice.
Madriaga's Supplemental Affidavit Unveils Alleged Assassination Plots
Madriaga's claims were formally submitted in a supplemental affidavit to the House Committee on Justice on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, during the resumption of the impeachment hearings. In this document, he alleged that the Dutertes had discussed "extraordinary measures" in the event that President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. refused to step down and adhere to a term-sharing arrangement ahead of the 2022 elections. According to Madriaga, these measures involved assassination plots targeting key officials, including President Marcos Jr., with the intent to incite widespread unrest and political instability.
Government Response and Security Measures
In response to these alarming allegations, Malacañang has directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to take charge of the investigation into the matter. When questioned about whether there is currently a credible threat against President Marcos, Secretary Remulla emphasized the constant nature of such risks. "There is always a credible threat against the President. It will never disappear, whether it comes from that camp or any other camp. The President is the most protected person in the Philippines precisely because of the nature of his job," he asserted, highlighting the robust security protocols in place to safeguard the nation's leader.
Office of the Vice President Dismisses Claims as Baseless
The Office of the Vice President has vehemently denied Madriaga's allegations, labeling them as "baseless" and "pure fiction." This dismissal sets the stage for a heated legal and political battle as the impeachment hearings continue to unfold. The conflicting narratives between Madriaga's testimony and the Vice President's office further complicate the proceedings, raising questions about credibility and motive.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes remain on the House Committee on Justice, with future testimonies anticipated to shed more light on these serious accusations and their implications for Philippine politics.
