Akbayan Rep. Chel Diokno on Wednesday urged the House Committee on Justice to place Ramil Madriaga, former aide to Vice President Sara Duterte, under protective custody, citing his fear that former Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. may want him dead.
Madriaga reportedly knows about the alleged misuse of confidential funds linked to Duterte’s offices and submitted an affidavit claiming he was once dragged toward a confined area, reportedly built by Teves.
Some lawmakers, including Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, opposed the motion, arguing Madriaga is a “polluted source” facing kidnapping and murder charges, while others like Rep. Leila de Lima defended the witness’s right to protection and proper testimony.
The panel agreed to subpoena Madriaga’s affidavit and strike statements questioning his credibility from the record.
The NBI has deployed agents to ensure Madriaga’s safety, while Duterte’s camp stressed she is not involved in any threats and wants him unharmed for an eventual confession.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 26, 2026
