The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has launched an investigation to verify the identities of its personnel assigned to provide security for Davao City Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, following a viral video showing the congressman allegedly assaulting a man in a Davao City bar.
Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, chief of the AFP public affairs office, confirmed that Duterte’s security detail was officially authorized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in accordance with existing rules and regulations during the election period.
“In line with this, the AFP is currently undertaking an internal inquiry to thoroughly verify and validate the identities of the personnel designated to provide security to Representative Duterte,” Trinidad said in a statement.
The issue gained traction after Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Rommel Marbil disclosed that two police officers and two soldiers were seen in the video. However, Marbil noted that the two police officers were unauthorized to serve as Duterte’s security detail, describing their actions as “moonlighting.” He added that the two officers and their commanders will be discharged from service.
“The AFP will closely coordinate and fully cooperate with the PNP and other concerned agencies in relation to any inquiries or investigations pertaining to Duterte’s security detail,” Trinidad emphasized, reiterating the military’s commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law.
The controversy stems from an incident on February 23, where a businessman filed a complaint with the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Duterte, accusing him of physical injuries and grave threats. Despite the allegations, Duterte has remained silent about the complaint but addressed his constituents in a Facebook post, saying, “Sa mga kapatid kong Davaoeño… nasa sa inyo pa rin ang desisyon kung sino ang inyong ibobotong congressman.”
