Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. on Wednesday brushed aside the complaint filed against him over his alleged possession of a Maltese passport, saying that those behind it must prove their allegation.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Philippine Air Force’s 79th founding anniversary at Villamor Air Base, Teodoro appeared unfazed by the complaint.

“If they filed a complaint, then let’s see what happens. It’s a legal case, so let’s see where it goes,” he said.

The defense chief reiterated that he had long addressed the issue and had already renounced his alleged Maltese citizenship or passport.

“I already clarified this a long time ago. If they refuse to believe it, then they should prove their claim. They’re the ones who filed the complaint, right? So let them prove it,” he said.

A few weeks ago, a lawyer filed a complaint accusing Teodoro of perjury and falsification of public documents over allegations that he held dual citizenship.

The Department of National Defense earlier dismissed the complaint as a “fishing expedition,” saying it was based on unverified allegations, lacked credible evidence, and improperly shifted the burden of proof to government agencies instead of the complainants.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also denied claims that military generals were preparing to file a similar complaint against Teodoro.

AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, dismissed the allegation, describing it as “a joke.”

Trinidad also rejected reports of a supposed rift between the military and the defense secretary, stressing that there was no tension between the AFP leadership and Teodoro.