Businessman Files Charges vs. Rep. Paolo Duterte Over Alleged Assault in Davao Bar

DAVAO CITY — A businessman has filed a criminal complaint before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo "Pulong" Duterte, accusing him of physical injuries and grave threats.

According to the complaint, the incident took place on Sunday, February 23, at a bar in Davao City. Duterte allegedly beat up the complainant for nearly two hours and repeatedly threatened him with a knife. The lawmaker is facing charges for violating Article 265 (Slight Physical Injuries) and Article 282 (Grave Threats) of the Revised Penal Code.

In a sworn statement, the complainant recounted the harrowing experience, claiming that Duterte headbutted him several times and ignored his repeated pleas for forgiveness. “At hineadbutt niya ako sa ulo ng maraming beses... ngunit patuloy pa rin siya na hineadbutt ang aking ulo at inuundayan niya ulit ako ng kutsilyo,” he said.

He also alleged that Duterte ordered the CCTV to be turned off after noticing it inside the bar. The complainant detailed further physical abuse, saying he was punched, slapped, and kicked. “Halos dalawang oras niya akong sinaktan... dahil sa galit niya sa akin,” he said.

After the assault, the businessman claimed Duterte handed him P1,000 for each blow he delivered. Out of fear, he said he did not immediately seek medical help or file charges.

The DOJ filing was confirmed by Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon. As of this writing, Duterte has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, though he earlier addressed a viral video linked to the incident, saying legal proceedings are ongoing.