Legislators reject tales of 'suitcases of cash'

LAWMMAKERS on Wednesday rejected allegations of receiving suitcases of cash, calling the claims a diversionary tactic to shield the Dutertes from accountability.

- JOVEE MARIE N. DELA CRUZ

The allegations came to light on Tuesday during a news conference called by porkbarrel scam whistleblower lawyer Levi Baligod. A group of 18 alleged former Marines asserted that they had handed cash to several officials, claiming their work was on behalf of businessman and former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co.

An unsigned affidavit circulated alongside the allegations, listing several public officials who allegedly received kickbacks. Among those listed were Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr., Rep. Julienne Baronda of Iloilo City, Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila De Lima, former Makabayan bloc lawmakers Arlene Brosas, France Castro and Raoul Manuel, Rep. Jojo Ang of the Uswag Ilonggo party-list, Manila Rep. Joel Chua, La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V, and several others.

The BUSINESS MIRROR is awaiting statements from other lawmakers and officials implicated in the allegation.

Chua, chairman of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, said the timing of the claims appears intended to undermine the Quad Committee and justice committee, which is set to hear Sara Duterte's impeachment.

"The timing is suspect. These allegations are meant to discredit members of the committees handling the impeachment proceedings," Chua said.