The Paolo Duterte NBI probe has taken a new turn after Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte asked National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag and the agency to inhibit themselves from investigating allegations made by former police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. The request raises questions about the conduct of the investigation into alleged cash deliveries involving members of the Duterte family.

The development adds another chapter to the controversy surrounding Gracioso’s claims of alleged cash deliveries involving members of the Duterte family.

Gracioso, a former member of the security detail of former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, claimed in a sworn statement that he personally delivered large amounts of cash to members of the Duterte family on instructions from Velasco.

Among the allegations, Gracioso claimed that Vice President Sara Duterte received more than ₱2 billion, former President Rodrigo Duterte received ₱1 billion, and Rep. Paolo Duterte received ₱100 million.

These claims have been strongly disputed by the individuals involved and have not been independently established.

The NBI has been examining Gracioso’s statements and supporting materials, including photographs and other evidence, to determine whether the allegations can be substantiated.

Matibag previously said the bureau would authenticate the materials and investigate the alleged movement of money and properties. The investigation has also drawn attention to possible financial irregularities and money laundering, although no such wrongdoing has been established.

Paolo Duterte’s camp has questioned the NBI’s authority to conduct the investigation and previously challenged the bureau through legal correspondence.

The latest request for inhibition raises further questions about the impartiality of the ongoing probe and the agency’s handling of the allegations.

An inhibition request, however, does not automatically stop an investigation. Its outcome will depend on the applicable procedures and the decision of the concerned authorities.

As the controversy develops, the public awaits further clarification from the NBI and the parties involved regarding the latest request.