Duterte Quips About Libel Case Against GMA News Over Coverage

DAVAO CITY — Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday made a pointed joke about taking legal action against GMA News, accusing the network of failing to properly verify information in a story about allegations from Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., a former police officer.

Gracioso, who has since been dismissed from the police service, had claimed he delivered cash-filled suitcases to Duterte at the direction of then House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, according to reports.

Duterte's remarks came as she criticized the news organization's reporting standards, suggesting the network did not adequately fact-check claims before publishing the story. Her comments appeared to use humor to underscore her displeasure with the coverage, though the specific context of her remarks remained unclear.

The incident reflects ongoing tensions between Duterte and various media outlets regarding coverage of corruption allegations and other sensitive matters. Duterte has been vocal about what she perceives as unfair or inaccurate reporting in recent months.

GMA News has not yet issued a formal response to Duterte's comments regarding the allegations or the quality of its reporting on the matter.