DAVAO Region’s top cop denied speculation circulating online regarding an alleged police raid on the residence of 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte at the beginning of the Holy Week.
Police Regional Office (PRO) XI director BGen. Leon Victor Rosete categorically denied rumors of a search warrant being served at the residence, labeling the viral report as “pure disinformation.”
Speaking to reporters at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) on Thursday, April 2, Rosete confirmed he has ordered Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Col. Peter Madria to track down the sources of the false reports.
“There is no such operation. This is fake news,” Rosete said. “I have directed our city director to investigate these spreaders of disinformation. This causes unnecessary confusion, and our units are now tracing the origin of these reports.”
Rosete warned that authorities would file criminal cases against those responsible, noting that the incident is reminiscent of “fake news” surges seen during previous election seasons.
In a separate statement, Madria clarified that no police operation took place at the congressman’s residence in Sitio San Pedro, Catalunan Grande.
Verified reports from Police Station 3 (Talomo) confirmed that while a crowd had gathered following unconfirmed reports that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) was serving a warrant, the situation remained peaceful.
“We strongly denounce the spread of false information that may create unnecessary fear and confusion,” Madria said. “The situation on the ground remains normal and fully under control.”
The tension began on Wednesday afternoon, April 1, after unconfirmed reports of an impending raid circulated online.
By 2 p.m. that day, approximately 60 to 70 supporters—including members of the Duterte Riders (DRT), “Tatay Digong” vlogger volunteers, and congressional staff—had gathered near the residence.
Deputy Mayor Usman, a staunch Duterte supporter, was also observed among those present.
As of early Thursday morning, April 2, the DCPO reported that the majority of the crowd had dispersed.
Approximately 20 personnel from the Davao Action and Response Team (DART) and congressional staff remained on-site for monitoring, but no untoward incidents were recorded.
Police Station 3 continues to conduct covert security monitoring in the area to ensure continued public order.
Photo from DCPO
