Duterte: NBI tried to ‘forcibly’ bring ex-Davao info officer to Manila

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) attempted to “forcibly” bring former Davao City information officer Jeffrey Tupas to Manila in exchange for money and other promises, Vice President Sara Duterte said Tuesday.

Tupas was among the individuals mentioned by former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., who claimed he delivered suitcases filled with cash to Duterte on orders from former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, for whom he served as an aide.

“Tupas himself told me that when NBI agents attempted to forcibly take him away in North Cotabato on September 29, 2026, his family was promised money, a residence in Forbes Park, and other things,” Duterte said during her press conference in Davao City.

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READ: Ex-Davao City information exec denies Gracioso’s suitcase claim

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“He also possesses evidence showing he was advised to first hold informal talks with the NBI in Manila, accompanied by offers and promises,” she added.

Tupas had previously said that the NBI informed him of an alleged “verifiable” abduction threat from the Duterte family.

He was then offered security arrangements, which he declined, and instead requested a formal investigation. The NBI then issued a subpoena ad testificandum, directing Tupas to appear before the agency on Oct. 1.

“So, what is the real plan? Keep the person hidden for their safety, or bring them to the NBI to testify?” Duterte asked after mentioning Tupas’ account of the alleged threat by her family.

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“And all of that—Jefry Tupas holds the evidence,” she added.

READ: Matibag: It was Tupas who brought out threats to his life, not NBI

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However, Matibag said Tupas was the one who brought up threats to his life, without naming anyone.

Matibag also said Tupas expressed willingness to cooperate and even committed to going to the agency’s headquarters in Pasay City before requesting a subpoena.

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He denied that they had talked over the phone, as Tupas claimed, and that Matibag had asked to meet in Manila. /mcm