Sara Duterte receives NBI invitation over Gracioso cash delivery allegations

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 02, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Maria Tan

Vice President Sara Duterte has received an invitation from the National Bureau of Investigation to attend a conference concerning allegations made by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr.

Duterte’s lawyer, Atty. Paul Lawrence Lim, confirmed that the NBI invitation had been received. The invitation asks the Vice President to attend a conference as part of the bureau’s investigation into Gracioso’s allegations.

Gracioso claimed in an affidavit that he delivered bags or suitcases of cash to members of the Duterte family while he was working as a security aide to former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco. The officials named in his allegations have denied the claims.

Lim said the NBI invitation did not include a copy of Gracioso’s affidavit or other supporting documents. Duterte’s camp has asked the bureau to provide copies so they can review the allegations and related evidence before deciding on the next steps.

The NBI earlier said it would invite the personalities mentioned in Gracioso’s affidavit, including Duterte, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte, Velasco and his wife, to obtain their statements as part of the investigation. NBI Director Melvin Matibag stressed that the invitations were not subpoenas.

The bureau is also examining Gracioso’s claims and the materials he submitted. Matibag said photographs and other evidence would undergo authentication and verification, while Gracioso could face perjury if investigators determine that his allegations are false.

Gracioso has also undergone lie detector examinations. The NBI said an earlier test only covered matters concerning his identity and relationships with the people he named, rather than the specific allegations in his affidavit.

The NBI investigation is ongoing, with Duterte’s response expected after her camp receives and reviews the documents related to Gracioso’s allegations.