NBI endorses charges vs VP Sara’s ex-aide

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has endorsed to the Department of Justice (DOJ) possible charges against Jeffrey Tupas, former information officer of Vice President Sara Duterte.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag yesterday said the bureau had completed its investigation report recommending charges of obstruction of justice, cyberlibel and publication of false news against Tupas.

“He is the one who emerged as a witness. So we are endorsing the report to the DOJ,” Matibag told reporters.

Tupas, who served as Duterte’s information officer when she was Davao City mayor and later worked at the Office of the Vice President, was summoned by the NBI to answer allegations made by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr.

Tupas did not personally appear at the NBI, but submitted a sworn statement denying the accusations. 

Gracioso alleged that he delivered suitcases containing millions of pesos to members of the Duterte family.

He claimed that Tupas received some of the money on behalf of Duterte, based on the instruction of former House speaker Lord Allan Velasco.

Gracioso also claimed to have delivered more than P2 billion to the Vice President.

Duterte and Tupas have denied the allegations.

Tupas said travel records showed that he was abroad during some of the alleged cash deliveries.

Duterte has called Gracioso’s accusations false. Velasco’s camp has also rejected the allegations as baseless. 

The NBI earlier said it would verify Gracioso’s accusations and examine supporting evidence.

Matibag said Gracioso may face perjury charges if his allegations are proven false. 

Tupas has claimed that NBI agents offered him protective custody amid an alleged threat from the Dutertes.

Matibag denied offering Tupas protection or money in exchange for his testimony.