A businessman accusing Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte of assault says the incident stemmed from a dispute over payment for women allegedly hired during a drinking session in February 2025.
In an interview with vlogger Niño Barzaga, the complainant recounted that Duterte became agitated twice that night—first, when a bodyguard was left without a companion, and again when one woman was reportedly paid only ₱1,000 despite spending hours with the group.
“From 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. kami nag-inuman, pero 1,000 lang ang binigay sa babae,” he said, claiming this led to Duterte’s anger being directed at him rather than the woman.
The businessman also alleged that Duterte noticed a CCTV camera inside the bar and instructed staff to shut it off. “Nung nakita niya may CCTV, pina-off niya. After that, binugbog niya ako for two hours,” he added. He insisted the footage was not fabricated, noting that he does not own the bar.
Identifying himself as a pimp, the complainant said it was not the first time Duterte had arranged such encounters. He claimed the lawmaker would only make such requests when accompanied by business partners or Chinese acquaintances.
He explained why he filed the complaint with the Department of Justice instead of local authorities. “Takot ako baka malapitan ko ang maling tao. Sa DOJ ako lumapit kasi hopeless na ako nun,” he said, adding that he feared potential retaliation in Davao.
Despite identifying as a Duterte supporter, the businessman said he felt compelled to act. “Wala naman ako laban sa pamilya niya. Pero ‘yung ginawa niya sa akin, halos dalawang oras niya akong binugbog.”
He also acknowledged filing the complaint two months after the incident due to needing time to process what happened.
As questions swirl about the veracity of the circulating video showing the alleged assault, the accuser challenged skeptics to view the footage taken from outside the bar, asserting that it clearly shows Duterte’s presence.
For his part, Rep. Duterte said he is waiting for official authentication of the video and has yet to receive a copy of the complaint. The Department of Justice confirmed a case of physical injuries and grave threats has been filed against him.
