QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The whistleblower who alleged that money-filled suitcases were delivered to members of the Duterte family was removed from service over administrative cases stemming from his former assignment in Calabarzon, police authorities confirmed.
According to Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., former Patrolman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. faced disciplinary action that eventually led to his dismissal from the lowest rank in the police force.
“Gracioso had been investigated, administrative case and there was a corresponding criminal case filed against him but that was long before, I think it’s a case in the year 2022 or 2021,” Nartatez said.
“And so now, the administration of justice in terms of administrative cases was finally resolved resulting in his dismissal from the service,” he added.
Prior to the issuance of his final dismissal, Gracioso had already been slapped with suspension penalties. The former officer was previously assigned to Police Regional Office-Region IV-A, which oversees the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon (Calabarzon).
The dismissal, which took effect earlier this month, carries severe accessory penalties, including the forfeiture of retirement benefits, cancellation of eligibility, and a permanent ban from re-employment in government service.
Gracioso recently came forward with allegations claiming he transported cash deliveries to the Vice President, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte. He had previously served as a security officer for former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.
PNP records corroborated his past security assignment with the former House Speaker.
“He had been detailed as security or staff of former speaker Velasco… all of his security operation was covered with orders,” Nartatez said.