MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Saturday denied knowing former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. or receiving money from him after the National Bureau of Investigation disclosed that it was investigating Gracioso’s claims that he delivered suitcases of cash to Duterte and members of her family.
The NBI said Gracioso claimed he delivered the money to Duterte, former President Rodrigo Duterte and Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte on the instructions of former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.
“I do not know Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., nor have I ever received any money from him,” Duterte said in a statement.
Duterte said her lawyers were waiting for an official copy of Gracioso’s affidavit from the NBI so they could prepare possible legal cases against him.
She said her legal team would challenge what she described as false statements in Gracioso’s testimony.
Duterte also called the allegations a “media stunt” that she said aimed to revive what she described as a faltering impeachment case against her.
She accused the administration of trying to remove her from office, pursue Charter Change, prevent the 2028 elections and remain in power.
Duterte also challenged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to take a public drug test and address the controversy surrounding the government’s flood control projects.
The NBI told GMA that Gracioso claimed he delivered more than P2 billion to Duterte.
Authorities have not publicly established the allegations as fact, and the NBI continues to investigate Gracioso’s claims.
