President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday distanced himself from the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) action to summon Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto over alleged violation of quarantine protocols set under the Bayanihan Heal as One Act.
In a televised addres, Duterte said that he had only spoken once about local government units to strictly follow the quarantine measures set by the national government.
“Isang beses lang ako nagsalita, nu’ng nag-proclaim ako ng emergency,” Duterte said. “Wala akong pakialam sa operation ng NBI.”
READ MORE: Duterte to local officials: ‘Honesty o kulong hanggang matapos ang COVID-19’
The chief executive added that he had nothing to do with the investigation as he is focused on crafting measures against the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
“Trabaho ng pulis ‘yan. Ang akin policy. Wala na akong pakialam,” he said.
Earlier, the President told the local officials to stand down and follow the national government so they can move in one direction.
READ MORE: NBI summons Mayor Vico Sotto over supposed violation of COVID-19 quarantine rules
READ MORE: ‘Side niyo ang nag-leak ng kopya’ – Vico Sotto slams NBI for politicizing subpoena
