Davao City Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has opted not to comment on a formal complaint filed against him for physical injuries and grave threats, now under review by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
In a Facebook video, Duterte addressed Davaoeños in Cebuano, acknowledging a resurfaced video tied to the allegations. He urged voters to decide for themselves in the upcoming election and said he would not interfere with their choice. Duterte also claimed he has yet to receive a copy of the complaint and noted his legal team is still verifying the video’s authenticity.
According to Duterte, the complaint appears to have circulated on social media before any official filing, possibly with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). Due to the lack of official documentation, he said he cannot issue a formal response.
The complaint, filed by a businessman, accuses Duterte of violations under Articles 265 (serious physical injuries) and 282 (grave threats) of the Revised Penal Code. The incident allegedly occurred on February 23 at a bar in Davao City.
In his affidavit, the complainant claimed Duterte beat him for nearly two hours, including multiple headbutts and physical blows, and threatened him with a knife. He also alleged Duterte turned off the CCTV during the incident and later handed him P1,000 for each act of violence. The businessman said he initially kept silent out of fear.
The DOJ confirmed the filing through Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon.