Davao City – Congressman Paolo Z. Duterte has expressed his openness to any investigation into allegations against him, provided it is conducted by an impartial and credible body. In a statement released today, the lawmaker maintained his innocence, calling the accusations “baseless” and underscoring his commitment to clearing his name.
“I welcome any investigation to be conducted by an impartial and credible body, as I have nothing to hide,” Duterte said. “I remain confident that the truth will expose the baseless nature of these accusations.”
The congressman, however, criticized the reliance on testimonies from convicted felons, specifically pointing to Jimmy Guban, a former customs officer and witness under a government protection program. Duterte argued that such testimonies, allegedly obtained in exchange for furloughs, lack credibility and undermine legitimate inquiries.
“If Congress is truly serious about addressing the proliferation of illegal drugs, they must begin by investigating those listed in the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) watchlist during the Duterte administration,” he said, calling for scrutiny of lawmakers whose family members have been implicated in drug activities.
Duterte also emphasized the need for fairness, decrying “selective justice and political grandstanding” as counterproductive to the fight against illegal drugs.
In response to allegations tied to Guban’s testimony, Duterte revealed he has already filed several perjury charges against the convicted felon, labeling these legal actions as the “first step in ensuring accountability for those who spread falsehoods.”
The congressman urged the House Quadruple Committee to conduct “genuine and unbiased investigations,” stating that the public deserves the truth and a sincere commitment to justice.
“Let us not be distracted by politically motivated accusations or unreliable testimonies. Let the facts speak, and let justice prevail,” Duterte concluded.
The statement follows growing calls for congressional investigations into alleged links between high-profile individuals and the illegal drug trade. Duterte, a member of a prominent political family, has repeatedly denied involvement in such activities.
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