DILG to proceed with Duterte probe even without sheriff’s complaint

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Interior and Local Government’s investigation of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte’s assault on a court sheriff on Friday will proceed despite victim’s reported lack of interest in pressing charges against the local chief executive, a Malacañang aide said on Saturday.

In a news briefing aired on radio, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the investigation of possible criminal charges would be separate from the investigation of administrative liability that the DILG would conduct.

Valte withheld further comment on the matter as she said the administrative case would eventually reach the Office of the President.

“We don’t want to give the impression that we have prejudged the case,” Valte said.