Politics · Philippines Bureau
NBI Director Challenges Duterte to Clarify Conflict of Interest Claims
National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag has called on Vice President Sara Duterte to specify her allegations of conflict of interest regarding the agency's investigation into a dismissed police officer's cash delivery claims.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — NBI Director Melvin Matibag on Tuesday challenged Vice President Sara Duterte to publicly detail what she meant by accusing him of conflict of interest in connection with the bureau's probe into allegations made by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr.
The NBI chief's challenge came after Duterte raised the conflict of interest claim during a press conference, apparently without elaborating on the specifics of her assertion. The vice president had not previously disclosed details about her concerns regarding Matibag's role in the investigation.
Gracioso, a former police official, has made allegations involving cash deliveries that have drawn scrutiny from various government agencies. The NBI's investigation into these claims has become a point of contention, with Duterte's accusation suggesting potential impropriety in how the bureau is handling the matter.
Matibag's public call for clarification appears aimed at forcing Duterte to substantiate her allegations or withdraw them. The exchange underscores ongoing tensions between the vice president's office and key government institutions over investigative matters.