NBI Narrows Hitman Search in Duterte Impeachment Trial to Under 20

In a recent ANC 24/7 report covering Day 9 of the Senate impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, NBI Director Melvin Matibag testified that investigators have narrowed their search for the alleged hitman to fewer than 20 persons of interest. The testimony focused on statements from the November 23, 2024, midnight press conference and the NBI's expansion beyond the Davao Death Squad. For families in barangays across Davao City and Manila, this political crisis stirs fears about security and whether leaders prioritize public safety over personal rivalries.

NBI Narrows Hitman Search in Duterte Trial to Under 20

[Manila, Philippines] — NBI Director Melvin Matibag took the stand on July 22, 2026, during Day 9 of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial before the Senate impeachment court presided over by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. Matibag stated that the bureau has narrowed its investigation to less than 20 individuals in the hunt for the alleged hitman the vice president reportedly contracted. The probe now includes active uniformed personnel and members of the vice president's security detail, not just former Davao Death Squad figures.

NBI Narrows Hitman Search

Matibag told the court that the NBI is "narrowing [the investigation] down already to less than 20 individuals." He explained that the task force reviewed records from the November 23, 2024, online press conference and cross-checked them against known networks in Davao City. The investigation reaches into current Philippine National Police personnel assigned to the vice president's office. This focus affects communities in Davao, where residents worry that ongoing probes could disrupt local security arrangements they rely on daily.

From Threat to Plan

Matibag testified that Vice President Duterte's November 23, 2024, statements went beyond a threat and amounted to a "plan" to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez killed if she were assassinated. The prosecution, led by Rep. Gerville Luistro, used this testimony to support Article IV on grave threats. The Senate impeachment court has now wrapped up its presentation on that article. Ordinary workers and jeepney drivers in Quezon City see these developments as a test of whether political figures face real consequences for words that could endanger public order.

Defense Cross-Examination and Courtroom Drama

Defense counsel Atty. Mark Vinluan questioned Matibag about meetings with prosecutors. Matibag replied that he met Rep. Gerville Luistro twice only to discuss topics for his testimony and denied any coaching. When pressed further, Matibag said, "I'm a lawyer, I know where you're going." His "asked and answered" remark during cross-examination drew laughs from the gallery. Presiding Officer Senator-judge Francis Escudero reminded Matibag of procedure but thanked him for saving the court time. These exchanges show the Senate's effort to maintain order while examining serious allegations tied to the Marcos-Duterte rivalry.

Financial Records and Unexplained Wealth

The impeachment court approved subpoenas for Vice President Duterte's and her husband's bank records, tax records, and Anti-Money Laundering Council documents. Article II of the Articles of Impeachment charges her with culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust through amassing unexplained wealth. Former self-proclaimed Davao Death Squad member Arturo Lascañas also testified that the vice president was among the architects of "Oplan Tokhang." These financial inquiries matter to taxpayers in Cebu and Baguio who question how public funds are spent amid separate NBI Task Force Cash Cow probes into the P6.7 billion PHISGOC funds for the 2019 SEA Games.

Political Implications for the Philippines

The trial underscores the bitter rivalry between the Marcos and Duterte political dynasties that has shaped national politics for years. With Vice President Duterte remaining abroad during parts of the proceedings, the Senate continues its work under Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. The outcome could influence the 2026 elections and how communities in Manila and Davao view accountability. Families and OFWs following the case wonder whether institutions like the Senate and the NBI can deliver justice that protects everyday citizens rather than shielding powerful names.

What to Watch For

The prosecution has finished presenting its grave threats case under Article IV. Next steps include decisions on evidence admissibility and further testimony on the unexplained wealth charges. The Senate impeachment court will determine the timeline for a verdict. Observers in Congress and the Philippine National Police watch how these rulings shape future investigations into political threats.

The trial's result will shape whether Filipinos regain faith in leaders who place public safety above personal and dynastic conflicts, or whether the cycle of rivalry continues to divide communities from Davao to Manila.

By Bella Reyes, Staff Writer