Voters Urged to Decide on Duterte Controversy
PBA Partylist Rep. Atty. Margarita “Migs” Nograles said the recent video showing First District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte involved in a bar altercation is now for the voters to judge. She emphasized, “At the end of the day, just like what others said, it’s now up to the voters to decide based on what they’ve seen. I’m not going to say anything more.”
As a lawyer and candidate opposing Duterte for the First District Congressional seat, Nograles stressed her commitment to dignity, due process, and justice. She pointed out, “The ultimate judgment lies with the voters,” despite any personal differences.
Campaign Focus on Participatory Leadership
Recently, Nograles has been visiting communities in District 1, promoting a leadership style that listens and responds to the people’s needs. During a campaign rally on May 7 at AR Gym, Barangay Talomo Proper, she declared, “Di ta nagahadlok, di ta naga-harass, and kung kamo hadlok mo, balos nalang sa Mayo 12.” She urged residents to use their vote as their voice.
Furthermore, Nograles promised to push for a specialty medical center in Davao to complement the existing Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC). She believes the city deserves a national government-supported specialty hospital to better serve its people.
Controversy and Official Responses
The video showing Duterte allegedly assaulting a man in a bar on February 23 has sparked controversy. A complaint was filed with the Department of Justice, but the Philippine National Police clarified on May 4 that it was not involved and the affidavit did not come from its personnel.
Duterte, meanwhile, said he has yet to receive any official documents regarding the complaint. His sister, Vice President Sara Duterte, called the issue a political attack against their family. She linked it to public backlash over the unfulfilled campaign promise of P20-per-kilo rice, labeling the complaint as “so-called.”