NBI files cyberlibel, obstruction of justice referral vs. ex-Sara Duterte aide Jefry Tupas

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Monday filed a referral with the Department of Justice (DOJ) against former Davao City chief information officer Jefry Tupas.

The complaint was for cyberlibel, obstruction of justice, and publication of false news.

“We will be filing… a case of obstruction of justice, cyberlibel, and publication of false news under the Revised Penal Code will be filed against Jefry Tupas,” NBI Director Melvin Matibag said in a press briefing.

“So we’re endorsing it to the DOJ for proper disposition,” he added.

This stemmed from the sworn statement submitted by dismissed policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr.

Gracioso claimed that he delivered cash to Vice President Sara Duterte, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and Davao Representative Paolo Duterte on the instructions of former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.

He also claimed that Tupas received the cash on behalf of the Vice President.

Tupas has denied Gracioso’s claims and submitted his affidavit with the bureau. He alleged that NBI agents offered him cash and a place to stay in the upscale Forbes Park in Makati City.

GMA News Online has sought comment from the Tupas camp and will update this story as soon as they respond.

Similarly, Sara Duterte, Paolo Duterte, and Velasco have submitted affidavits denying the allegations against them.

Paolo Duterte has also filed a cyberlibel complaint against Matibag, Gracioso as well as GMA Network executives and journalists. —RF, GMA News