Davao City — First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte strongly reacted to the sudden “disappearing acts” and selective accountability in government investigations.

In his statement, 9 December, Pulong stressed that every time the Duterte name is dragged into an issue, investigations suddenly become urgent, loud and relentless.

“But the moment the trail leads to the President’s own cousin, his own child and their congressional minions, the entire process magically collapses. That is not a coincidence. That is protection. That is selective justice,” he stressed.

He also stated that when the flood-control scandal first broke out, “operators” were noisy, arrogant, and confident. Then, when names close to Malacañang started surfacing, they vanished like bubbles, no subpoenas, no follow-ups, and no consequences.

Who gives clean pass?

He also questioned, “Why is it that some officials get charged immediately, while others, especially those connected to the Palace, get a clean pass? Why is it that allies get washed clean, while critics get dragged through every possible hearing?”

Duterte further concluded that the public already has an adjective for it, calling it hugas-kamay or so-called protect your own.

“If we will be made to answer for charges against us then fine — go ahead. We’ve faced worse. So long as these are done out of principle and not to protect allies who are co-conspirators of corruption while weaponizing the law to silence rivals,” he stated.