MANILA — A sweeping sworn affidavit alleging the delivery of “suitcases” and bags believed to contain cash to some of the country’s most powerful political figures has triggered a wave of denials and intensified public scrutiny over the conduct of high-ranking officials.
The affidavit, executed by former marines and released publicly late Tuesday, claims that from 2022 to 2024, operatives personally witnessed or participated in transporting suitcases and bags to senators, members of the House of Representatives, Cabinet officials, and even the residence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The affiants alleged the deliveries were carried out upon the instructions of former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co and took place at private residences, offices, the House of Representatives, upscale subdivisions such as Forbes Park, and other locations in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Among those named in the affidavit were Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, incumbent senators Francis Escudero, Loren Legarda, Erwin Tulfo, and Mark Villar, as well as former senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.
Several former and incumbent House members were also identified as alleged recipients or individuals present during meetings or deliveries. These included Ferdinand “Martin” Romualdez, Benny Abante, Zia Adiong, Jose Alvarez, Jojo Ang, Julienne Baronda, Robert Ace Barbers, Ching Bernos, Arlene Brosas, France Castro, Joel Chua, Mannix Dalipe, Leila de Lima, Dan Fernandez, Janette Garin, Dong Gonzales, Jay Khonghun, Gerville Luistro, Raoul Manuel, Paolo Ortega, Joseph Paduano, Stella Quimbo, and Jayjay Suarez, among others.
Within hours of the affidavit’s circulation, Abante, Brosas, Castro, Chua, and Manuel issued categorical denials of the allegations against them.
The document further alleged that suitcases were delivered to former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan and former Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. Retired General Gregorio Catapang Jr., now Bureau of Corrections chief, was also referenced in connection with the transport of several bags.
Most strikingly, the affidavit named President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and members of his family, claiming that several large suitcases were delivered to their residence in Ilocos Norte and received by family members. Presidential son and Ilocos Norte’s Cong. Sandro Marcos was likewise mentioned in connection with alleged deliveries.
According to the affiants, some of the handovers were made directly to residences, while others were turned over at official offices or private townhouses. The affidavit also claimed that certain deliveries were documented through photographs and videos, although these materials were not included in the excerpts made public./PN
