Paolo Duterte: I want justice, not revenge on Trillanes

Former Davao City vice mayor Paolo Duterte on Saturday said he is seeking justice, not revenge, against opposition Senator Antonio Trillanes IV.

"I honestly do not seek revenge. What I seek is justice," said the former vice mayor, who is the son of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The President on Friday said Paolo is seeking a seat at the House of Representatives in the May 2019 elections to get back at Trillanes. 

"I think he's running for congressman kasi napahiya, hiniya ni Trillanes. He was summoned to Congress. Ganun si Trillanes," Duterte said in a speech before the Filipino community in Papua New Guinea, where he is attending the 26th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting.

Paolo was summoned to the Senate last year for a hearing looking into the P6.4-billion shabu shipment that slipped past Customs in May 2017. Trillanes claimed that Paolo is part of a drug triad.

In a Facebook post, Paolo said he has filed cases against Trillanes.

"He should man up and face these cases in court," he said.

Paolo also dismissed Trillanes as "worse than a non-matter" and "worthless."

"Next year, Mr Trillanes will be worse than a non-matter. He will end his term as a senator like it is a blessing to the Filipino people — perhaps except for the few who believed in the lies he concocted against me and my family," he wrote.

"As he is today, he will be worthless," Paolo added.

"Apart from that [cases he filed], considering the insignificance and uselessness of Mr Trillanes, I will devote my time to serve the Dabawenyos," Paolo said.

He filed on October 12 his certificate of candidacy for congressman of Davao City's first district, a post held by Karlo Nograles who was recently appointed Cabinet secretary.

Asked for comment, Trillanes said Paolo's statement is just "drama." He also dared Paolo to show the tattoo on his back, which the senator has said is proof of membership in the triad.

"Maraming pa siyang drama. Ipakita na lang 'yung tattoo niya sa likod, period," Trillanes said. —With a report from Ted Cordero/KG, GMA News