MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday gave assurances that it will conduct a fair and objective review of the case referral filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) concerning the alleged undeclared wealth of Vice President Sara Duterte in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).
In an official statement, the anti-graft agency verified that it has already secured the transmitted case records.
“The Office of the Ombudsman confirms receipt of the referral from the NBI concerning the SALN of Vice President Duterte. The Office assures the public that the matter will be handled thoroughly, independently and without any political color,” the Ombudsman stated.
The institution noted that the submitted paperwork will go through an initial assessment phase to chart out the proper course of action.
“The referral and its supporting documents will undergo an initial evaluation to determine the appropriate action, including whether further investigation is warranted, in accordance with established procedures and applicable laws,” it added.
The NBI officially transmitted its fact-finding report regarding the Vice President’s SALN to the Ombudsman on Tuesday, October 13, requesting a formal review and subsequent actions.
In the transmittal document submitted to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla, the bureau emphasized the legal authority of the anti-graft office over the matter.
“The Bureau refers the matter to your Office, as the constitutional body with primary jurisdiction over public corruption under Article XI of the 1987 Constitution and Section 15 (1) of Republic Act No. 6770. The NBI stands ready to provide further records and to present its agents as witnesses should your Office require them,” the letter read.
The NBI investigation originated from testimonies provided by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., a former member of the security detail assigned to ex-House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.
Gracioso asserted that he followed instructions from Velasco to transport cash-stuffed suitcases to Vice President Sara Duterte, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte.
According to his allegations, the cash deliveries intended exclusively for the Vice President accumulated to more than ₱2 billion.
All accused figures—including Vice President Duterte, Representative Duterte, and Velasco—have consistently refuted and denied the allegations.