Duterte alleges NBI coerced ex-official in alleged cash-for-testimony scheme

Vice President Sara Duterte leveled fresh accusations against the National Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday, claiming the agency sought to coerce a former Davao City information officer into traveling to Manila under duress. Duterte alleged that the NBI attempted to bring Jeffrey Tupas to the capital while dangling financial rewards and other promises to secure his cooperation. The vice president's statement came amid a broader controversy involving former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., who has claimed involvement in transporting suitcases allegedly filled with cash. Tupas was cited among individuals connected to Gracioso's assertions, though details of the alleged scheme remained unclear. The allegations add to mounting tensions between Duterte and various government institutions, as questions persist regarding the nature of the payments and the individuals involved. The NBI has not immediately responded to the vice president's accusations. The incident underscores ongoing disputes over investigative methods and potential impropriety within law enforcement agencies handling sensitive political matters.