Rep. Paolo Duterte files libel suit vs. NBI chief, GMA execs, journalists over cash delivery report

Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has filed a multi-million peso libel and cyberlibel complaint-affidavit against the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin A. Matibag, dismissed police officer Rodulfo M. Gracioso, Jr., and GMA personalities before the Office of the City Prosecutor in Davao City on October 23, 2026.

Named as respondents from GMA Network are Chairman Felipe Gozon, Chief Executive Officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., and 24 Oras journalists Mel Tiangco, Vicki Morales, Emil Sumangil, Darlene Cay, Marvin Parado, and Joel San Luis, alongside unidentified John and Jane Does.

The complaint comes amid cash delivery allegations featured in an exclusive report by GMA News, where Gracioso claimed personal knowledge of cash-filled suitcases delivered to members of the Duterte family, including an alleged P100-million delivery to Rep. Paolo Duterte. 

Legal counsel for Duterte, Atty. Peter Paul Danao, stated that both the manner and specific timing of the report suggested malice.

Duterte emphasized that the legal action stems from untruthful statements broadcast about his family. 

“Nagsampa tayo ng kasong libel at cyberlibel laban kay Melvin Matibag, Gracioso, at iilang personalidad ng GMA News na 24 Oras dahil sa mga pahayag nilang walang katotohanan, at malinaw na paninira sa pangalan ko at sa aming pamilya,” said Duterte.

In a released statement, GMA Network said it has yet to receive an official copy of the complaint, adding that it will review the filing and comment once received.

The Office of the City Prosecutor in Davao City will evaluate the submitted complaint-affidavit to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with formal criminal charges in court.