MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday firmly denied allegations made by her alleged former aide Ramil Madriaga, saying his claims are a deliberate attempt to damage her credibility and derail any potential bid for the presidency in the 2028 elections.
Duterte dismissed Madriaga’s assertions that he acted under her instructions to deliver large sums of money to various individuals, calling the allegations baseless and unsupported by evidence.
“I do not have a personal relationship with Ramil Madriaga, nor have I ever given him instructions of any kind,” Duterte said in a statement. “I have never visited him in prison, nor have I spoken to him about anything at any time.”
Madriaga, who claimed he began working for Duterte during her tenure as Davao City mayor, made the allegations in an affidavit submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman. His statements have drawn public attention amid renewed political speculation surrounding Duterte’s future plans.
The vice president stressed that Madriaga has failed to present any proof to substantiate his accusations, describing them as mere allegations intended to sow doubt and controversy.
“There is no evidence—only accusations,” Duterte said, adding that the timing of the exposé raises questions about motive.
Duterte did not directly confirm any plans to seek the presidency but suggested that the allegations were politically motivated, particularly as discussions about the 2028 national elections begin to surface.
The Office of the Ombudsman has yet to publicly comment on the affidavit or indicate whether a formal investigation will be pursued.
