Speaking to reporters in an ambush interview, Matibag underscored the principle that everyone must be held accountable under the law, adding that he would respect the decision of the Davao City Office of the City Prosecutor.
He said the case should be resolved based on the evidence and established legal procedures, expressing confidence that the process would establish the truth.
Matibag also recognized Duterte’s right to seek legal remedies, saying the lawmaker was free to pursue the complaint.
The NBI director defended the bureau’s handling of the investigation, saying Duterte had been invited several times to present his side regarding allegations made by Rodulfo Gracioso Jr.
He clarified that the NBI’s probe into the claims involving Duterte is still underway and maintained that investigators are relying on evidence in conducting their work.
Matibag added that he had yet to receive a copy of the complaint affidavit filed against him.
Duterte earlier lodged libel and cyber libel complaints against Matibag and several media personalities in connection with reports and allegations surrounding the investigation.
Gracioso had claimed that he delivered suitcases containing ₱2 billion to Vice President Sara Duterte, ₱1 billion to former president Rodrigo Duterte, and ₱100 million to Rep. Duterte, allegedly on the instructions of former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.
The claims remain allegations and have not been established as facts.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag