Davao City Congressman Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, seeking reelection, has chosen to keep quiet amid serious allegations against him. A businessman has lodged a complaint at the Department of Justice (DOJ), accusing Duterte of physical injuries and grave threats.
In a Facebook video message, Duterte addressed his fellow Davaoeños in Cebuano, saying, “Sa mga kapatid kong Davaoeño, ngayon may nakita na naman kayong video. Matagal-tagal na itong nangyari. Ah sige lang, nasa sa inyo pa rin ang desisyon kung sino ang inyong ibobotong congressman sa unang distrito. ‘Di ako makikialam.” He essentially left the decision to the voters, refusing to meddle in the matter.
He explained that he has yet to receive a copy of the complaint. His legal team is currently verifying the authenticity of a video allegedly showing Duterte physically assaulting a man. “Sinabihan ako ng abogado na until now inu-authenticate pa nila kung saan galing ‘yung video… ‘Di ako makagawa ng statement niyan kasi ‘di kami nakatanggap ng dokumento na may nag-file sa akin ng kaso,” Duterte said.
The complaint details an incident that happened on February 23 inside a Davao City bar. The businessman alleges that Duterte threatened him with a knife and subjected him to a brutal beating lasting nearly two hours. He testified that Duterte headbutted him repeatedly despite his pleas for forgiveness. At one point, Duterte allegedly even turned off the CCTV camera inside the bar.
“He beat me with punches, slaps, and kicks because of his anger toward me,” the complainant said, recounting the harrowing ordeal. After the violent episode, Duterte reportedly handed him P1,000 for each blow he delivered.
Despite the physical abuse, the complainant did not immediately seek medical attention or file charges out of fear. The filing of the case at the DOJ was confirmed by Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon.
The accusations point to violations of Articles 265 and 282 of the Revised Penal Code. As the legal process unfolds, many eyes remain fixed on the high-stakes political landscape in Davao City, where this drama continues to unfold.
