Politics · Philippines Bureau
NBI chief challenges Duterte camp to file bias complaint
National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag has challenged Vice President Sara Duterte's camp to file a formal case against him if they believe he is acting improperly during the bureau's investigation into allegations involving her.
LSN Philippines ·
Matibag issued the challenge on Thursday in response to statements from the vice president's camp characterizing him as biased in his handling of the NBI investigation. The NBI director said that if Duterte's representatives believed his conduct violated regulations or legal standards, they should pursue appropriate legal remedies rather than make public accusations.
The confrontation underscores escalating tensions between the vice president and the agency investigating matters related to her office. Duterte's camp had previously questioned the impartiality of the NBI's investigation, suggesting that Matibag's direction of the bureau reflected institutional bias.
Matibag's statement represents a direct rebuke to the criticism, placing the burden on Duterte's representatives to substantiate their allegations through formal channels. The exchange reflects the broader political friction between the vice president and various government bodies, as well as questions about the independence of investigative agencies during periods of heightened political tension.
The NBI investigation continues as both sides maintain their respective positions on the matter's handling and the agency's neutrality.