DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte personally lodged formal complaints for libel and cyber libel against several GMA Network executives and news personalities, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag, and former policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. at the Hall of Justice here on Friday, October 23.
Accompanied by his legal counsel, Duterte arrived at the Office of the City Prosecutor around 10 a.m. to file the charges concerning what he termed false and unverified statements broadcast against him and his family.
The respondents from GMA Network include key executives Felipe Gozon and Gilberto Duavit Jr., alongside news anchors and personalities Mel Tiangco, Vicki Morales, Emil Sumangil, Darlene Cay, Marvin Parado, and Joel San Luis, alongside unnamed John and Jane Does.
”We filed libel and cyberlibel complaints against Matibag, Gracioso, and several personalities from GMA News’ 24 Oras over their statements, which are untrue and clearly intended to tarnish my name and that of my family,” Duterte told members of the Davao media, adding that he is taking action to protect his children, mother, and relatives.
The legal action stems from explosive claims made by Gracioso—alleging that he delivered suitcases of cash to the Duterte family under the instructions of former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco—which were subsequently aired by the network.
During the filing, Duterte’s lawyer, Peter Paul Danao, questioned the suspicious timeline of the allegations, pointing out that Gracioso’s affidavit was submitted on September 14, while the GMA interview featuring Gracioso and Matibag was broadcast on September 25.
Danao noted that the lawmaker has no personal ties to Gracioso and criticized Director Matibag for prematurely assessing the claims as “99 percent true” even before the NBI concluded its investigation.
Furthermore, Danao argued that the network neglected to properly verify Gracioso’s background—including his previous dismissal from the Philippine National Police (PNP)—and failed to secure Duterte’s side prior to airing the report.
While the September 25 broadcast of “24 Oras” noted that the network was still pursuing responses from those accused, Danao stressed that they proceeded to air a one-sided report regardless.
Duterte is seeking ₱20 million in total damages, comprising ₱10 million in moral damages and ₱10 million in exemplary damages, specifically targeting the September 25 broadcast. Danao hinted that additional complaints regarding reports concerning properties tied to the congressman might follow after further consultations.
Meanwhile, GMA Network released a brief statement on Friday indicating that they have not yet been served with the legal documents.
“GMA Network has yet to receive a copy of the complaint,” the network said. “We will review the matter and comment accordingly upon receipt.”