The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clarified that its recommendations are not binding on the Department of Justice (DOJ) or local courts, according to testimony by NBI-Bangsamoro Regional Director Atty.Jeremy Lotoc during Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s impeachment trial.

Lotoc emphasized that the DOJ retains the authority to assess and evaluate cases independently, with the court holding sole power to determine guilt or innocence.

The testimony focused on Article IV of the Articles of Impeachment, which alleges grave threats and an assassination plot against President Marcos, his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.Lotoc noted that the NBI did not clarify its stance during a House hearing, as no direct questions were posed.The case involves allegations of political interference, with Duterte's legal team challenging the NBI's role in the trial.

This highlights ongoing tensions between investigative agencies and judicial processes in high-profile cases, raising questions about accountability and procedural independence in Philippine governance.