Duterte dismisses allegations from ex-police officer as political attack

Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday dismissed allegations from Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., a now-dismissed policeman, as part of a coordinated effort to undermine her political reputation. Speaking at a press conference in Davao City, Duterte presented a prepared statement refuting claims contained in a September 14 affidavit filed by Gracioso.

Duterte characterized Gracioso's actions as an attempt to weaponize personal grievances against former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco into attacks on her own political standing. She argued that the allegations lacked credibility and represented a broader pattern of political harassment.

The Vice President's response came after the emergence of Gracioso's affidavit, which made unspecified allegations against her. Duterte's detailed rebuttal underscored her determination to address the claims head-on rather than allow them to circulate unanswered in the political arena.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions within Philippine political circles and the willingness of key figures to publicly defend themselves against allegations in the court of public opinion. Duterte's statement reinforced her position that such attacks would not deter her from her official duties.