Congressman Paolo Duterte sues NBI chief and GMA staff over cash-delivery video
Davao City Representative Paolo Duterte filed libel and cyber-libel charges against NBI Director Melvin Matibag, former policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., and several GMA Network personnel over a September 25 broadcast alleging a cash hand-over.
Representative Paolo Duterte of Davao City’s 1st district lodged a libel and cyber-libel complaint on Friday targeting National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag, former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., and several GMA Network executives and journalists. The suit arises from a September 25 pre-recorded broadcast on GMA News 24 Oras that portrayed Gracioso handing a suitcase filled with cash to members of Duterte’s family.
Duterte, through lawyer Peter Paul Danao, denied any knowledge of Gracioso and rejected the claim that he received any money, while seeking ₱10 million in moral damages and another ₱10 million in exemplary damages. GMA Network said it has not yet been served with the complaint and will comment after review. Gracioso had earlier alleged that the cash delivery was ordered by former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, a charge denied by both the vice president Sara Duterte and Velasco’s camp.
Why it matters
The filing highlights escalating legal battles over alleged corruption claims involving high-profile political families in the Philippines.
How this story developed
- Oct 10 House prosecutors consider sending VP Sara Duterte bribery case to DOJ and Ombudsman
- Oct 14 The Senate impeachment court approved the withdrawal of three of the four articles, leaving only the unexplained‑wealth charge.
- Oct 15 President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated he is not considering appointing a new vice president while the impeachment trial continues.
- Oct 17 The House panel voted to discard three impeachment articles, narrowing the Senate trial to a single charge.
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