Vice President Sara Duterte on Sept. 26 denied knowing Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. and receiving money from him, following allegations by the former police officer involving alleged cash deliveries worth more than ₱2 billion.
Gracioso, who said he previously served as head of security for former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, alleged that he delivered suitcases containing cash to Duterte on instructions from Velasco. He estimated that the total amount delivered to the vice president exceeded ₱2 billion across more than 20 occasions.
The National Bureau of Investigation is examining Gracioso’s allegations. GMA News reported that the NBI provided a copy of his sworn affidavit detailing alleged deliveries involving amounts ranging from ₱20 million to ₱50 million. The affidavit reportedly included alleged deliveries in Metro Manila, Davao and other locations.
Duterte said her lawyers are waiting for an official copy of Gracioso’s affidavit from the NBI before proceeding with cases she said would be filed against him.
She also described Gracioso’s testimony as false and compared it with previous allegations made by Ramil Madriaga, whom she has also disputed.
Duterte further characterized the allegations as a “media stunt” intended to revive what she described as a weakening impeachment case against her. She accused the Marcos administration of seeking to bring her down, advance Charter Change, prevent the 2028 elections and remain in power. Those statements are Duterte’s allegations and have not been established as facts by the reports reviewed.
The vice president also renewed calls for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to undergo a public drug test and address issues surrounding flood control projects. The latest developments come as Duterte faces impeachment proceedings involving allegations concerning her finances and other matters.
