NBI summons VP Duterte, Velasco over ex-cop's allegations

MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is pressing ahead with its inquiry into allegations made by retired police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., who has accused prominent officials of involvement in undisclosed cash transactions. NBI Director Melvin Matibag confirmed that invitations were dispatched Thursday to the individuals implicated in Gracioso's claims, including Vice President Sara Duterte and former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.

The nature of the "cash delivery" allegations and their specific details remained unclear, though the NBI's move signals an active investigation into the matter. Gracioso, a former member of the Philippine National Police, had publicly linked the officials to transactions he believes warrant official scrutiny.

The invitation letters represent a formal step in the investigation process, though it was not immediately specified whether the individuals were being called in as witnesses or for other purposes. The NBI typically uses such invitations to gather statements and clarify circumstances surrounding allegations under investigation.

The development comes as the office of the Vice President and Velasco's representatives have not yet issued public statements regarding the NBI's action. The investigation's progress and the officials' responses are expected to shed further light on the scope of the inquiry.