By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Businessman Mark Taguba has reaffirmed his seven-year-old testimony implicating Davao City Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, his brother-in-law Manases “Mans” Carpio, and other members of the so-called “Davao Group” in the smuggling of ₱6.4 billion worth of shabu in 2017.

Testifying before the House Quadruple Committee on Wednesday night (November 27, 2024), Taguba—who is currently detained for his role in processing the shipment—stood by his original statement, despite facing harassment and death threats.

“I have not recanted my affidavit implicating Pulong Duterte,” Taguba said in response to questioning by Batangas Second District Rep. Gerville “Jinky Bitrics” Luistro.

While he admitted apologizing to the then-presidential son in a press conference due to intense pressure, Taguba clarified that it was not a retraction.

Taguba accused the Davao Group of manipulating Customs operations through key intermediaries, including Davao City Councilor Nilo “Small” Abellera. He claimed he paid Abellera a ₱5-million “enrollment fee” to gain access to Pulong Duterte.

Abellera, who was present during the hearing, admitted meeting Taguba in Davao City but denied receiving money. “His requests were rejected,” Abellera stated.

Taguba countered, “Kinuha niya ang pera.”

He also implicated Carpio, the husband of Vice President Sara Duterte, alleging that money was funneled through Davao Group operatives like “Tita Nani.”

“Sabi nila si Pulong Duterte ang mag-aayos kapag nagbigay ako ng pera,” Taguba recalled.

Taguba detailed the harassment he endured after naming Pulong Duterte and Carpio, including threats to his life and family. “Pati nanay ko, balak nilang patayin,” he said, describing the intimidation. He also noted that his Senate security detail was removed, leaving him vulnerable.

The ₱6.4-billion shabu shipment, which originated in China, was intercepted in Valenzuela City in 2017. However, questions remain about the true ownership of the contraband.

Meanwhile, a Manila court recently sentenced Taguba, along with Eirene Mae Tatad and Dong Yi Shen (alias Kenneth Dong), to life imprisonment for their roles in the smuggling case. They have filed a motion for reconsideration and sought the judge’s inhibition.

An emotional Taguba criticized the justice system for failing to hold powerful figures accountable, saying private individuals like him were convicted while key players escaped prosecution.

In light of Taguba’s testimony and the threats to his life, the Quadruple Committee, led by Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, approved a motion to transfer Taguba to House custody. The panel resolved to detain him at the House “until the termination of the hearings or until the threat to his life is eliminated.”

Despite his conviction, Taguba’s testimony continues to shine a light on the alleged influence of the Davao Group, raising lingering questions about one of the country’s most high-profile smuggling cases.

(Ai/MNM)