Eighteen Marines named several lawmakers during today’s Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing as alleged recipients of “maletas” or cash deliveries linked to the flood-control corruption scandal.
In sworn testimonies, the Marines identified Rep. Benny Abante, Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, Rep. Leila de Lima, Rep. Ace Barbers, Rep. Joel Chua, Rep. Paolo Ortega, and members of the Makabayan Bloc as among those who allegedly received corrupt money.
During questioning by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, the lawyer of the Marines said there was existing evidence connected to the alleged involvement of several of the named personalities. The lawyer also noted that because the statements were made under oath, any of the 18 Marines found to be lying could face perjury charges.
The testimonies also renewed scrutiny on the Makabayan Bloc’s long-running push to abolish the NTF-ELCAC, as well as the continued public defense of Martin Romualdez by several figures now being linked to the alleged flow of corrupt money.
The Blue Ribbon Committee is continuing its inquiry into the alleged flood-control scandal, with the latest sworn testimonies expanding the list of public officials now being dragged into the controversy.
