**Philippine Security Council to Investigate Alleged Assassination Threat by Vice President Duterte**

The Philippines' security machinery is set to probe an alleged assassination threat issued by Vice President Sara Duterte against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., labelling it a "matter of national security." National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano announced the move on Sunday, emphasizing the gravity with which the government treats any potential threats to the president.

In a forceful statement on Saturday, Duterte claimed that she had conversed with an assassin, instructing them to eliminate President Marcos, his wife, and the Speaker of the Philippine House, should any harm come to her. In response to the alarming declaration, Ano committed to collaborating closely with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to authenticate the threat and identify possible perpetrators.

"Any and all threats against the life of the president shall be validated and considered a matter of national security," Ano stated. The Presidential Communications Office, citing the justice ministry, indicated that the Vice President's threats are currently under investigation and might result in charges if supported by evidence, potentially leading to prosecution.

The origins of Duterte's threat trace back to a legislative order to detain her chief-of-staff, who is accused of obstructing an investigation into her alleged misuse of public funds. In reaction to these threats, President Marcos' security detail has heightened its protective protocols, and the national police chief has launched an inquiry.

Previously allies, Duterte and Marcos secured top leadership positions in the 2022 elections with significant voter support. However, their partnership unraveled this year due to policy disagreements, notably on foreign policy and the elder Duterte's contentious anti-drug campaign.

Separately, congressional allies of President Marcos are investigating former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, which resulted in more than 6,000 deaths, as well as alleged financial misconduct by Sara Duterte during her time as education secretary. Both the Dutertes have denied any wrongdoing. Vice President Duterte resigned from her Cabinet post in June.

The developments mark a significant escalation in the political drama between the top two offices of the Philippines, casting a spotlight on the nation's complex political landscape and legal repercussions surrounding the use of public authority.