Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Duterte has called for an independent and transparent forensic examination of a photo circulating online that allegedly shows a top public official using illegal drugs.

In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Duterte said the issue of the public official raises serious concerns that should not be dismissed outright.

Duterte acknowledged that many Filipinos are understandably alarmed by the image, stressing that public concerns should be addressed directly to prevent further speculation and erosion of trust.

“If the photo is fake, it would be better to subject it to an independent, transparent forensic examination so speculation can stop,” Duterte said. “If it is real, the people have the right to hear the truth.”

The lawmaker emphasized that no one should be judged solely based on an image, but noted that holders of public office – especially the President – are expected to meet a higher standard of accountability.

Duterte warned that silence, avoidance, or downplaying the issue would only deepen public distrust. He said leadership requires transparency and the ability to maintain the people’s complete confidence.

He pointed out repeated allegations of drug use that date back to before the 2022 elections, as well as the continued refusal to undergo a hair follicle drug test, saying these factors further contribute to declining public and investor confidence.

Duterte also raised concerns about alleged corruption linked to trillions of pesos allocated to flood control projects, funds he said came from taxpayers and remain unaccounted for.

He added that the public continues to await resolution of these issues. “If the law is strict on ordinary Filipinos, it should be even stricter on those in positions of power.”

Duterte emphasized that accountability should apply equally to all. “The people are watching. In a democracy, asking questions is not an attack – it is an obligation of leadership to respond,” he said.

Meanwhile, Duterte accused the Makabayan bloc of selectively calling for accountability and using impeachment moves to destabilize the government.

In a statement Tuesday, Duterte said the bloc should first answer allegations of abuses tied to their ideology, including the killing of students, abuse of women, and harm to civilians in the name of revolution.

“Where is the justice for students deceived and killed by the NPA? Where is the justice for mothers and women abused in the name of revolution?” Duterte asked.

The lawmaker questioned why they have not denounced alleged atrocities committed by the New People’s Army, including the recruitment of minors and the killing of dissenters.

Duterte questioned the timing and frequency of the bloc’s impeachment efforts, noting its earlier move against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the filing of a complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte before Feb. 6.

He described the moves as serial impeachment, saying they show hunger for power rather than a search for justice and warned against using impeachment as a political weapon or shortcut to power.