DOJ to assess credibility of ex-officer Gracioso's cash-delivery claims

The Department of Justice announced it will scrutinize the credibility and possible motives of former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. as it reviews his affidavit alleging cash deliveries to members of the Duterte family. Gracioso asserts he handed suitcases of money to Vice President Sara Duterte, Representative Paolo Duterte and former President Rodrigo Duterte, claiming the instructions came from former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.

Sara Duterte publicly stated she does not know Gracioso and has never received money from him, while her legal team awaits the NBI’s official affidavit copy to prepare any charges. Velasco’s spokesperson dismissed the allegations as unfounded and suggested the narrative is a fabricated attack. Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida explained the DOJ will assess the “totality of circumstances,” weighing verifiable facts and Gracioso’s motivation before deciding on any further action. The department has not yet considered placing Gracioso under the Witness Protection Program.