Metro Manila, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte challenged National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag to file a case against Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. if investigators find that he made false statements, as she also raised an alleged conflict of interest involving the NBI chief.
Duterte said she expects the NBI to act on Matibag’s earlier statement that Gracioso could face a case if allegations in his affidavit are proven false.
“Gusto ko makita ngayon na mag-file ang NBI ng kaso kay Gracioso pagkatapos nilang makuha yung mga affidavit,” Duterte said in a press briefing on Tuesday, Oct. 6.
[Translation: I now want to see the NBI file a case against Gracioso after they obtain the affidavits.]
Duterte said she would wait for the NBI’s action before revealing what she described as Matibag’s conflict of interest in the controversy.
“Bago ko ilabas yung conflict of interest ni Matibag, gusto ko makita kung totoo ba talaga siyang professional siya na NBI director na kasuhan niya si Gracioso,” Duterte said.
[Translation: Before I disclose Matibag’s conflict of interest, I want to see if he will really act professionally as NBI director and file a case against Gracioso.]
Duterte did not provide details about the alleged conflict of interest during the press conference.
She said the NBI need not establish that Gracioso’s entire affidavit was false, but could act on portions concerning her if investigators find evidence that he lied.
Duterte presented records and photographs Tuesday that she said contradict several of Gracioso’s allegations.
She has denied receiving money and other items allegedly delivered by Gracioso and has said her lawyers are preparing a formal response to his affidavit.
NewsWatch Plus has reached out to NBI chief Matibag for a comment.
