Vice President Sara Duterte recently spoke about a video that has been spreading online. This video reportedly shows her brother, Congressman Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, allegedly hurting a man in a bar in Davao City. Even though the video has caused a lot of attention, Sara Duterte thinks that it could actually help voters make better decisions before the upcoming elections on May 12.
Sara shared that, for her, it’s okay that the video came out before the elections because it allows voters to decide who they want to vote for based on the information they have. However, she also believes that the release of the video is part of a “political attack” aimed at their family. She said that it might be a way for others to hurt their reputation and distract from important issues facing the country.
A businessman had earlier filed a complaint against Pulong, accusing him of hurting him and threatening him with a knife. This incident is said to have happened on February 23, and the businessman has filed the case with the Department of Justice. Despite the serious allegations, Sara Duterte dismissed them, saying that it’s part of the current government’s effort to attack their family politically.
Sara also pointed out that the family’s lawyers will handle the situation, and she believes that local candidates in Davao City are not involved in the case or video being shared online. She further added that those who are in charge of the local candidates are not the ones controlling them, but the national government is trying to bring their family down.
Regarding the issue of local politics, the Philippine National Police (PNP) clarified that they were not responsible for sharing the video or the complainant’s affidavit. They also denied having any role in spreading the footage of the incident.
In another part of the interview, Sara Duterte expressed her confidence that the senatorial candidates of the PDP Laban party, known as “DuterTEN,” have strong support from the people. However, she voiced concerns about possible election cheating and vote-buying. She mentioned hearing rumors that some candidates in the administration are giving away government funds, which could violate election laws.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has already warned that giving away assistance during the election period, like money from the government programs, is illegal. Those who break this law could face serious penalties, including imprisonment.
Sara Duterte’s comments come as the election draws near, and her family faces many challenges, both politically and personally. Despite the controversy, she remains determined to continue supporting her family’s political goals.
