MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has strongly rejected claims that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. masterminded a massive corruption scheme involving the use of former Marines to deliver cash-filled travel bags to various politicians.
The Allegations:
- Source: Lawyer Levito Baligod presented 18 men in black shirts on Tuesday, identifying them as former Marines who acted as “bagmen” or couriers.
- The Claim: Baligod alleged that these men delivered a total of ₱805 billion in kickbacks from flood control projects. He accused President Marcos of being the “brains” behind the operation, with funds allegedly originating from former Rep. Elizaldy Co.
- Beneficiaries: The scheme supposedly benefited 26 lawmakers, including members of the Makabayan bloc.
Malacañang’s Response:
Palace press officer Claire Castro labeled the story a “lousy script” and a “destabilization plot” to unseat the President. She urged the public to scrutinize the background of those making the claims, suggesting they were the same group behind previous attempts to undermine the administration. The Palace indicated that legal action—including charges for spreading fake news—could be taken by the PNP, NBI, or DOJ.
Counter-Arguments & Discrepancies:
- Military Background: The Philippine Navy conducted a records check and revealed that four of the 18 alleged couriers were never members of the Marines or Navy. The majority of the others were ex-members who had been dishonorably discharged.
- Suspicious Timing: Former lawmakers France Castro, Arlene Brosas, and Raoul Manuel (Makabayan bloc) called the timing “highly suspicious.” They noted that these claims surfaced exactly when former President Rodrigo Duterte faces ICC proceedings and Vice President Sara Duterte faces a new impeachment complaint.
- AFP Caution: The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) cautioned against “grandstanding” and the “manipulative use of media” to spread unverified claims.