VP Sara Duterte files affidavit denying dismissed cop’s allegations

Vice President Sara Duterte has submitted a sworn affidavit to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) denying corruption allegations raised by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., her legal team announced.

In a letter addressed to NBI Director Melvin Matibag, Duterte’s lawyers said they submitted her “Sinumpaang Salaysay na May Ibayong Pag-iingat” dated October 6.

The submission directly addresses Gracioso’s September 14 affidavit and his subsequent statements to mainstream media.

Her legal team noted that the filing was made ad cautelam (as a precaution) and without prejudice to their standing position that the NBI lacks jurisdiction over the Vice President.

The defense team also questioned Matibag’s impartiality, citing past opinion columns and recent actions that they argued demonstrate bias against Duterte.

“Still, the attached affidavit and its attachments showcase the falsity of Mr. Gracioso's claims against our client and others mentioned in his Sinumpaang Salaysay,” her lawyers said in the letter. “This should be sufficient to put to bed this investigation insofar as our client is concerned.”

Duterte’s counsel requested that the NBI provide them with copies of any additional affidavits or evidence Gracioso submits throughout the investigation.

The submission comes amid an ongoing NBI inquiry into Gracioso’s claims, which include allegations that Duterte received suitcases filled with cash from former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.

Duterte has consistently denied all of Gracioso’s assertions.

-Paraluman News