By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has formally called in Vice President Sara Duterte, former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco and other individuals named in a former police officer’s allegations that suitcases allegedly filled with cash were delivered to several political figures.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said invitations were sent Thursday to the respective addresses of those identified by former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., who is expected to face further questioning as the bureau examines his sworn allegations.
The NBI said those invited include Vice President Duterte and her brother, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte, as well as Velasco and his wife, Rowena.
They are scheduled to appear before the NBI on Monday, Oct. 5.
Gracioso, who previously served as an aide to Velasco, alleged that he personally delivered suitcases containing cash to Vice President Duterte, Paolo Duterte and former President Rodrigo Duterte between 2018 and 2020.
The allegations have prompted the NBI to seek statements from the individuals named in Gracioso’s account as the investigation proceeds.
The bureau earlier disclosed the results of Gracioso’s polygraph examination, which indicated “no deception indicated” in connection with his affidavit.
Matibag said the NBI would continue to reach out to other individuals who may have information relevant to the allegations, including those who may be required to appear through subpoenas.
“So, there are still people we will invite and subpoena,” Matibag said.
Vice President Duterte has denied knowing Gracioso and rejected the former police officer’s allegations.
The NBI’s invitations now put the allegations under closer scrutiny as investigators seek responses from those directly named in Gracioso’s account.
ia/xf
