MANILA – The Office of the Ombudsman is looking into a criminal complaint filed against presidential son and former Davao City vice mayor Paolo Duterte, possibly in connection with his statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN).
The case is under preliminary investigation in the office of Deputy Ombudsman for Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices Cyril Ramos, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales said in a television interview Monday.
“What I know is that it has not been terminated yet. I think it has to do with his SALN. I think they segued to the preliminary investigation,” Morales told CNN Philippines.
“I had inhibited in cases involving the then mayor [now President Rodrigo Duterte] and his family,” she said. “When the case of Paolo Duterte came, even if I had inhibited, they still referred it to me, and I said, ‘Due to prior inhibition, I inhibit in this case.’”
Morales clarified that she “wouldn’t dare inquire” about the status of the case. “So many ears are here, so many people are listening. Whatever I do, probably they would give it meaning.”
A preliminary investigation will determine if there is probable cause for a respondent to be indicted.
Five cases against Paolo Duterte were docketed at the Ombudsman: graft, forfeiture, perjury, violation of the Code of Conduct for Public Officials, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
Paolo Duterte resigned as Davao City vice mayor on Dec. 25 last year out of “delicadeza” after he was tagged to the smuggling of P6.4 billion worth of shabu and his public spat with 17-year-old daughter Isabelle./PN
