Former members of the Makabayan Bloc and leaders of various people’s movements strongly condemned what they described as malicious and baseless allegations made by individuals identifying themselves as former members of the Philippine Marines.
Former ACT Teachers Party-list Representative France Castro said the accusations were a desperate move and part of what she described as a political demolition campaign against lawmakers and activists linked to impeachment-related issues.
Castro argued that the allegations represented a systematic attempt to damage the credibility of individuals who have sought to hold the Duterte family accountable.
She also dismissed claims that she and other personalities frequently met with former Congressman Zaldy Co and left carrying paper bags. Castro described the accusation as an embarrassing falsehood.
According to the former lawmaker, anyone can present photographs and fabricated stories, but she said the witnesses failed to provide evidence that could withstand scrutiny in court.
Castro further maintained that members of the Makabayan Bloc could not be involved in any alleged flood control scam because they did not have infrastructure projects, allocable funds, budget insertions, or kickbacks.
Meanwhile, former House Quad Committee Overall Chairman Robert Ace Barbers said witnesses invited by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Rodante Marcoleta should explain their allegations before the courts, especially since multiple cases have reportedly been filed against them.
Barbers said he believes the controversy is part of a political destabilization effort intended to divert attention from impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte and undermine the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court over the case involving former President Rodrigo Duterte.
He also questioned the testimony of the group known as the “18 Ex-Marines,” noting that the alleged source of payout money was described as suitcases, paper bags, and envelopes, yet none of the witnesses reportedly claimed to have personally seen or handled the money.
The allegations remain disputed, with both sides maintaining opposing positions.
