Dismissed policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. takes a lie detector test at the National Bureau of Investigation on Oct.1, 2026. Zyann Ambrosio, ABS-CBN NewsMANILA — The Department of Justice is still evaluating an affidavit by dismissed policeman Rodulfo Gracioso, Jr., who has alleged that he delivered suitcases of cash to Vice President Sara Duterte and her relatives.
Gracioso has alleged that he made the deliveries under instructions from former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, to whose security detail he used to be assigned. Duterte has denied the allegation.
Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said the department is taking into account the credibility issues hurled against Gracioso.
PNP: Gracioso statements to be probed on own merit
“Kaya nga sa akin, totality, totality of the circumstances surrounding kasi ang gusto namin kung sakaling maging witness siya at isasalang siya sa isang kasong krimen, it will withstand the test noong judge, sa cross-examination, kasi ang ayaw natin iyong magsasampa ng kasong mahina,” Vida said.
(For me, we want to see the totality of circumstances surrounding this because what we want is that if he becomes a witness, his testimony will withstand the scrunity of a judge and cross-examination. We don't want to file weak cases.)
He said the DOJ is evaluating whether Gracioso would qualify for witness protection and if his allegations would help build a case.
Vida said it is still too early to tell if Duterte would even have to officially respond to Gracioso's allegations.
"[S]peculation pa sa tiempong ito (That is all speculation at this time)," he said.