MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte has strongly denied any connection to her alleged former aide Ramil Madriaga, dismissing his explosive claims as a calculated effort to sabotage her potential presidential candidacy in the 2028 elections. In a statement released on December 21, 2025, Duterte asserted she has “no personal relationship” with Madriaga, never issued him instructions, never visited him in detention, and never discussed any matters with him.
Duterte described Madriaga’s allegations as “bare accusations without evidence,” labeling them as “noise” and suggesting he is desperate for release due to his criminal background. “His story is meant to stop my possible presidential bid,” she said, framing the exposé as politically motivated sabotage.
The controversy stems from Madriaga’s affidavit submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman, where he accused Duterte of directing him to deliver large sums of money to various individuals during her tenure as Davao City mayor and vice president. Madriaga’s lawyer further claimed Duterte visited him twice in his detention cell at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, allegedly to prevent him from revealing details about her supposed dealings.
Duterte refuted any implications from circulating photos purportedly showing them together, explaining they are unrelated images from public events during her election campaign. “These photos do not support his allegations; they merely indicate his presence in a group,” she clarified.
This development intensifies the ongoing probe into Duterte’s use of confidential funds, amid broader political tensions and her rift with the Marcos administration. Madriaga’s testimony could be pivotal in plunder and graft cases, but Duterte maintains it’s fabricated to hinder her political future.
As 2028 looms, Duterte’s denial shifts the narrative from funds to ambition—leaving the Ombudsman to sift fact from alleged fiction.
Allegations and Responses Snapshot:
| Aspect | Madriaga’s Claims | Duterte’s Response |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship | Acted as aide; delivered money on orders | No personal ties; never issued instructions |
| Visits | Two detention visits to silence him | Never visited; denies any discussions |
| Motive | Expose confidential funds misuse | Fabricated to block 2028 presidential bid |
| Evidence | Affidavit to Ombudsman | Photos from public events; no proof |