Jefry Tupas accuses NBI of harassment in Vice President investigation

Former Davao City information officer Jefry Tupas has denounced the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for recommending criminal charges against him. Tupas, a former employee of the Office of the Vice President, accused the agency of using “deceptive maneuvers” and harassment to pressure him into testifying against Vice President Sara Duterte.

The NBI, led by Director Melvin Matibag, endorsed a report to the Department of Justice recommending charges of obstruction of justice, cyberlibel, and publication of false news against Tupas. This follows allegations by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., who claimed to have delivered suitcases of cash to members of the Duterte family and alleged that Tupas received cash on behalf of the Vice President.

Tupas maintains that the allegations are false and stated that he provided documentary evidence to refute Gracioso’s claims, including airline ticket bookings, passport photographs with immigration stamps, and social media posts. He questioned the legitimacy of the NBI's investigation and the previous offers of protective custody, suggesting they were tactics intended to force him into becoming a witness.