NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag confirmed Monday that the agency will invite Vice President Sara Duterte and Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte to respond to the allegations made by former police patrolman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr.
Also set to be invited are former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco and his wife, who were named in the affidavit. Matibag clarified that the invitations are not subpoenas but rather requests for the personalities to provide their comments and side of the story as part of the ongoing probe.
Gracioso has claimed he delivered suitcases filled with cash to Vice President Duterte, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and Representative Paolo Duterte on the instructions of Velasco.
The Vice President has strongly denied knowing Gracioso or receiving any money from him, and has stated she intends to file charges against him. Matibag said the NBI will furnish her with a copy of Gracioso’s sworn affidavit — subject to consent for its release — along with supporting photographs, so she can directly address and refute the claims in her own statement. “We will give these to the Vice President so that she herself can speak,” Matibag explained.
The investigation centers on Gracioso’s credibility and the veracity of his claims, which reportedly involve the alleged transfer of substantial funds.
By inviting all named parties to submit their accounts, the NBI aims to build a complete and balanced record before determining whether there is sufficient basis to pursue formal charges or dismiss the allegations. No timeline was given for when the invitations will be sent or when responses are due, but the bureau emphasized that the inquiry is proceeding expeditiously and fairly.
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