National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag clarified that the agency's probe into alleged irregularities during the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games is part of its mandate, not an act of intimidation.

He emphasized that the investigation focuses on the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC), which received around P2 billion in government funds.

Matibag stated that the probe examines expenditures, uniforms, athlete allowances, meals, and travel tickets, citing unpaid travel agency fees and allegations of financial discrepancies.

Senators Pia Cayetano and Alan Peter Cayetano accused the NBI of trying to distract from Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, but Matibag denied any intent to intimidate.He reiterated that the NBI is merely fulfilling its legal obligations and that no one is above the law.The investigation also includes scrutiny of Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon, despite the Ombudsman clearing him.Matibag is set to face the impeachment court next week, stressing that the process must be respectful and rights-compliant.