MANILA, Philippines — Laguna 1st District Representative Ann Matibag dismissed claims raised by Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, emphasizing that the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) inquiry into Davao City’s flood control projects bears no connection to infrastructure initiatives in Laguna.
In a official statement released Saturday, September 19, the lawmaker addressed the allegations directly.
”Congressman Paolo Duterte has raised questions about infrastructure projects in Laguna’s First District after the NBI disclosed findings from its investigation of flood control projects in Davao City. I will address those questions plainly,” Matibag said.
”I have no role in directing, conducting, or speaking for any NBI investigation,” she said.
”The investigation of the Davao projects should proceed on its own evidence. Any questions about projects in San Pedro City, Laguna should likewise be examined on their own facts. One should not be used to obscure the other,” underscored the congresswoman.
Matibag also clarified the distinct boundaries between her congressional duties and the public function of her husband, NBI Director Melvin Matibag, noting that his office operates independently from her district operations.
”Director Matibag likewise has no role in my congressional office. We are husband and wife, but our public responsibilities are separate. Questions about the conduct and direction of the NBI investigation should be addressed to the Bureau.”
Addressing Duterte’s insinuations regarding project irregularities in her jurisdiction, Matibag challenged the former House deputy speaker to formally submit any supporting documentation to appropriate oversight bodies.
”If Congressman Duterte has documents or videos showing possible irregularities in projects in my district, he should submit them, together with the specific project details, to the proper authorities. My office wil cooperate fully in securing the records and in any lawful inquiry.”
”My position is simple : apply the same standards everywhere, examine the official records. and follow the evidence. I will neither shield anyone found responsible for wrongdoing nor pass judgment withou facts and due process,” she said.
Concluding her statement, Matibag affirmed she would refrain from engaging in further public feuds that divert attention from core governance concerns.
”Were the projects properly delivered? Were public funds lawfully used? Who, if anyone, must be held accountable?” she asked.
”This will be my only statement on this exchange. Let the records the evidence, and the proper investigative processes establish the truth,” she further said.