Defending Integrity: Lawmakers Stand Firm Amid Allegations
In a dramatic turn of events on Thursday, a group of current and former members of the House of Representatives stood united, vehemently denying allegations that they received illicit payments in suitcases. The claims, made by 18 supposed former members of the Philippine Marines, have been dismissed as nothing more than malicious attempts to undermine the ongoing impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte and other efforts aimed at holding the Duterte family accountable.
In a heartfelt joint statement, former lawmakers France Castro of ACT Teachers, Arlene Brosas of Gabriela, and Raoul Manuel of Kabataan expressed their outrage. “We categorically denounce these baseless claims!” they proclaimed. Their words echoed with emotion, painting a picture of what they believe to be a systematic attack on anyone brave enough to challenge the powers that be. “This is not just an attack on us; it’s an attack on anyone who dares to seek justice,” they asserted, revealing the weight of their conviction.
The accused—known as the Makabayan bloc—faced serious allegations of receiving kickbacks linked to flood control projects. However, the lawmakers were adamant. “We don’t have any projects under our names,” they reiterated, their voices filled with urgency. “Because we have no infrastructure projects, we cannot accept anything!”
These claims of suitcases filled with cash were directed towards various political figures, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Senators Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and Erwin Tulfo, and even House Senior Deputy Minority Leader Leila de Lima. For her part, de Lima fiercely defended her integrity. “I’ve already responded to these blatant lies,” she stated, having filed complaints for libel and perjury against those spreading the rumors. “Whether it’s a suitcase or a paper bag, I have never received any money!” Her disbelief shone through, highlighting the absurdity of the accusations.
Adding his voice to the fray, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, the House Assistant Majority Leader, echoed his colleagues in denial. “I did not accept any suitcase or money from anyone,” he declared with unwavering conviction. “These accusations are distractions from our crucial constitutional duty,” he added, a palpable sense of purpose in his words. “I will not be intimidated by lies!”
Palawan 2nd District Rep. Jose “Pepito” Alvarez also weighed in, suggesting that his rejection to endorse an impeachment complaint against Marcos may be behind his inclusion in the allegations. “I can categorically say I didn’t accept any suitcase from Zaldy Co. There are no debts between us,” he firmly stated, shedding light on the tangled web of political intrigue.
The Makabayan lawmakers—Sarah Elago from Gabriela, Antonio Tinio from the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, and Renee Co from Kabataan—further emphasized their innocence. “We are staunchly rejecting any attempts to link us to this scandal,” they said, determination ringing in their tone. “No flood control projects, no infrastructure allocations, no project insertions—we stand clean!”
With a rallying cry, they urged the Senate to prioritize integrity. “The nation’s resources shouldn’t be wasted on bogus hearings and false testimonies,” they implored. Their passionate plea served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for accountability and transparency in government.
In this high-stakes political theater, one thing is clear: these lawmakers are not backing down. Their unity and resilience resonate—not just as a defense against allegations, but as a commitment to uphold the truth. Justice, they insist, will prevail.
