MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has endorsed the filing of criminal complaints against Jeffrey Tupas, a former aide of Vice President Sara Duterte, in connection with allegations that he accepted a ₱20-million cash delivery on her behalf in Davao City back in 2018.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated on Monday that the agency is officially forwarding its comprehensive investigative findings to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for legal evaluation and appropriate proceedings.
According to Matibag, the submitted report advises that Tupas face charges for obstruction of justice and the publication of false news under the Revised Penal Code.
The inquiry traces back to statements provided by self-confessed financial courier Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., a terminated police officer formerly detailed under the security setup of ex-House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.
Gracioso asserted that Velasco directed him to transport money packages to various personalities, specifically naming members of the Duterte family.
The witness maintained that Tupas personally collected the ₱20-million sum for Duterte during the period she served as mayor of Davao City.
While investigators formally issued summonses for Tupas to appear and address the accusations, he opted not to attend the scheduled proceedings. Instead, Tupas countered the allegations through a formal sworn affidavit, categorically denying Gracioso’s claims.