Women’s group slams Davao solon over viral video

Davao City First District Representative Paolo Duterte is facing a backlash and scrutiny from women's rights advocates following allegations of exploiting women and a reported nightclub altercation.

The controversy stems from CCTV footage that purportedly shows Duterte attempting to stab and headbutt an individual at a Davao City nightclub. Kristone John Patria Moreno, who identified himself as a pimp, filed an assault complaint and alleged in a sworn statement that he supplied women to Duterte and businessman Charlie Tan.

Moreno claimed a payment dispute on 23 February led to the confrontation. He said he delayed coming forward due to the Duterte family's perceived influence in Davao City.

Women's rights groups Gabriela and Talikala called for a thorough investigation, demanding Duterte be held “accountable for the exploitation of women,” particularly those driven into the sex trade by poverty.

“This is the grim reality for over 2,000 prostituted women in Davao City, who are left with no choice but to enter the sex trade due to the rising cost of living, lack of jobs, and limited access to social services,” said Dr. Jean Lindo, Gabriela Party-list’s 3rd nominee.

“Instead of offering support as a sitting legislator, Duterte chose to abuse his position and prey on women’s vulnerabilities,” Lindo said.

Talikala, meantime, stressed that Moreno’s statements suggest a broader trafficking network for prostitution, warranting an extensive investigation.

“There is a buyer, and women are being sold. There is a pimp. There was transporting and sexual exploitation,” said Jeanette Ampog of Talikala.

As of now, no formal charges related to the prostitution allegations have been filed.