Duterte can’t be influenced by kin — Palace

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte could not be influenced even by members of his family, Malacañang stressed yesterday amid reports that a business partner of his brother Emmanuel was arrested by the Japanese police for allegedly plotting a robbery in Tokyo. 

An article posted on the website cryptonews.com said Japanese authorities nabbed Takanori Okuno for allegedly orchestrating an assault and robbery in the Minato ward of Tokyo that left two people injured. The victims were supposedly forced to surrender cash to the attackers.

Okuno and Emmanuel founded the Japhil Global Coins Corp., a Cebu-based company engaged in virtual currency trading. 

Cryptonews said Okuno has denied involvement in the incident, which reportedly took place two years ago. 

Asked to comment on the issue, presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said the President had advised the public not to believe anyone who claims that they could influence government policy. 

“In one instance, the President asked me to tell the public to stay away even from his siblings. He did not authorize anyone, including his siblings, to do business with the government,” Roque said. 

“Unfortunately, President Duterte does not control his relatives. He has repeatedly clarified it to the public. He had nothing to do with the activities of his siblings. If his siblings or relatives are using his influence as President, please report it to Malacañang.”

Roque said Duterte does not condone influence peddling in his administration. 

Citing a report by Japanese media outlet Global News Asia, Cryptonews said Okuno’s arrest could affect the prospective launch of his company’s cryptocurrency-related projects.