The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) executive, Jeremy Lotoc, testified before the Senate impeachment court that former President Rodrigo Duterte's alleged grave threats against critics are 'serious and real.

' This testimony comes amid ongoing proceedings in the impeachment trial of Duterte's daughter, Sara Duterte-Carpio, who faces charges related to her role in a controversial legislative initiative.

Lotoc emphasized that the threats, which include references to 'death and destruction,' were not mere rhetoric but part of a broader pattern of intimidation aimed at silencing dissent.

The court proceedings have drawn significant public attention, with legal experts debating whether these allegations could influence the outcome of the impeachment case.

Critics argue that the testimony underscores the need for accountability in political power, while supporters of Duterte claim the accusations are politically motivated.

The NBI's involvement highlights the intersection of law enforcement and political accountability in the Philippines, raising questions about the independence of judicial processes in high-profile cases.