Businessman Files Raps vs. Rep. Paolo Duterte at DOJ
PAOLO DUTERTE – Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte is now facing criminal complaints for physical injuries and grave threats, filed by a businessman before the Department of Justice.
A businessman has filed criminal charges against Davao City Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte before the Department of Justice (DOJ), accusing him of physical assault and making grave threats during an incident that allegedly occurred in a Davao City bar.
The complaint cites violations of Article 265 (Slight Physical Injuries and Maltreatment) and Article 282 (Grave Threats) of the Revised Penal Code. Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon confirmed that the case has been formally submitted to the DOJ for review.
According to the sworn affidavit of the complainant, the altercation took place on Sunday, February 23. He claimed that Duterte physically assaulted him for nearly two hours and repeatedly threatened him with a knife. The businessman recounted that he pleaded for forgiveness, unsure of what had provoked Duterte’s anger, but the alleged assault continued.
“At hineadbutt niya ko sa ulo ng maraming beses at ako ay humihingi sa kanya ng patawad kung ano man ang nagawa kong mali sa kanya ngunit patuloy pa rin siya na hineadbutt ang aking ulo at inuundayan niya ulit ako ng kutsilyo,” said the complainant.
He further alleged that Duterte turned off the bar’s CCTV system after noticing its presence, and resumed his assault away from surveillance. The complainant described enduring repeated punches, slaps, and kicks throughout the two-hour ordeal.
“Halos 2 hours niya akong sinaktan sa loob ng bar. Suntok, sampal, tadyak, ang aking inabot kay Paolo Duterte dahil sa galit niya sa akin,” he said.
In a disturbing detail, he said Duterte later handed him P1,000 for each instance he was struck, as if to compensate for the violence inflicted.
According to the report, the complainant said he initially chose not to pursue medical attention or legal action due to fear of retaliation. However, he eventually decided to come forward and seek justice through official channels.
As of this writing, Representative Duterte has not issued a public response regarding the allegations. The DOJ is currently evaluating the complaint and is expected to determine the next steps in the legal process.
This case has sparked public interest given the prominence of the accused, who is the son of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Further developments are expected as the DOJ proceeds with its investigation.