Title: Navigating the Storm: Jing Paras’s Camp Fights Back Against Bribery Allegations
In a world where politics often feels like a game of shadows, the camp of former Congressman Jing Paras stepped into the spotlight on Tuesday, emphasizing their stance against serious allegations of bribery.
At the heart of the matter is a claim that ₱5.5 million was given to an individual, an alleged talent manager known only as “Ken.” But Paras’s team insists that this money was not a bribe. Instead, they argue that it was financial assistance meant to support Ken and others after they bravely agreed to testify about an alleged plot involving Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.
Mark Tolentino, Paras’s lawyer, passionately defended his client, stating, “Mr. Ken approached us willingly, volunteering to share what he knew about events from 2025.” This wasn’t a coerced confession but rather a courageous decision by someone who felt they had a story to tell. “My client’s role was simply to help in drafting the affidavits,” Tolentino explained. “He called in lawyers to assist the women involved.”
However, the fear lurking behind this testimony is all too real. The lawyer revealed that Ken was genuinely afraid to speak out against a powerful official. “Where could they hide? What expenses would they face while in hiding?” Tolentino questioned, his tone heavy with concern. “They worried about potential harassment from this high-ranking official. This is why they asked for funds, which led to the sum reaching ₱5.5 million.”
In a move that demonstrates their resolve, the former congressman plans to file perjury complaints against those making these accusations. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag previously asserted that Paras had allegedly pressured human trafficking victims to fabricate a story and sign affidavits that would implicate Recto, with events supposedly slated to unfold right after the State of the Nation Address.
Adding fuel to the fire, both Paras and Representative Leandro Leviste have publicly denied the allegations, standing firm against what they perceive to be baseless accusations.
But it doesn’t stop there. Ferdinand Topacio, another lawyer representing Paras, shared a more profound concern. “This investigation is part of a larger scheme to discredit legitimate opposition,” he declared, pointing out that Paras is among the vocal critics of the current administration. This isn’t just about a single incident; it encompasses the struggle for political integrity and truth.
“Sadly, bending the law is nothing new,” Topacio lamented. “This isn’t the first time we’ve seen such tactics.”
As the story unfolds, Paras’s team has submitted an affidavit to the NBI, seeking clarity and resolution. Meanwhile, Leviste’s lawyer stated bluntly, “We invoke Congressman Leviste’s right to remain silent; we deny any involvement.” Notably, reports surfaced claiming that Leviste had left for Hong Kong on August 2, adding another layer of mystery to the ongoing saga.
As GMA News sought a response from Matibag regarding the assertions made by Paras’s defense team, he chose to remain silent, leaving many questions unanswered.
In a landscape dominated by uncertainty, the fight for truth continues, echoing the voices of those who dare to stand up against forces that seem impenetrable. Despite the storms brewing around them, Paras and his camp remain resolute, embodying a struggle fueled by courage and the relentless pursuit of justice.
