Rep. Duterte welcomes drug smuggling case, maintains innocence

MANILA, Philippines —  Davao City First District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has welcomed the move of former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV to file a drug smuggling case against him and nine others in relation to the P6.4 billion shabu shipment seized in 2017.

In a statement on Wednesday, the same day Trillanes filed the case, Duterte said that he accepts the development as it will ensure that the case will be heard in court instead of on social media.

READ: Trillanes sues Rep. Duterte, VP’s husband, ex-BOC head for drug smuggling

“This move will allow us to address these accusations through the proper legal channels, ensuring that the truth will prevail,” Duterte said.

He then maintained his innocence and expressed confidence in the country’s judicial process.

“I have always maintained my innocence, and I am confident that the judicial process will clear my name. It is important to rely on our legal institutions rather than resorting to trial by publicity or baseless allegations,” he said.

At around noon on July 31, Trillanes filed a drug smuggling case before the Department of Justice against Rep. Duterte; Atty. Mans Carpio, who is the husband of Vice President Sara Duterte; and former Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon for their alleged involvement in the shabu shipment case.

READ: BOC: Evidence ‘sufficient’ on P6.4-B shabu conspiracy

Trillanes claimed that the lawmaker and the other respondents violated Section 4 in relation to Section 26(a) of Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 as amended by Republic Act No. 10640; and Republic Act No. 3019, otherwise known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.