DOJ Receives Sexual Assault and Lasciviousness Complaints Against Marikina Lawmaker

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Thursday that it has received complaints from two police officers accusing Marikina 1st District Representative Marcy Teodoro of sexual assault and acts of lasciviousness. Both complainants were previously assigned as Teodoro’s close-in security personnel at different times. One officer claimed that during her deployment, the lawmaker committed acts defined as lasciviousness under Article 336 of the Revised Penal Code. Another complainant, who initially served as close-in security for his spouse before reassignment to Teodoro, alleged that the representative committed rape by sexual assault in addition to lascivious acts. For their protection, the DOJ has opted to withhold the identities of the complainants. When asked for a response, Teodoro stated that he is currently "waiting for the copy of the complaint." The DOJ emphasized that Teodoro will be accorded full due process and that the proceedings will be handled with impartiality. The agency confirmed that the cases will undergo a comprehensive case build-up and legal assessment to determine if there is sufficient evidence before any formal investigation is initiated. This approach ensures that any subsequent action will be based on a thorough and substantiated record. The DOJ reaffirmed its commitment to objectively pursue cases solely based on evidence and the relevant legal framework.

Former Aide Alleges Massive Cash Deliveries Linking House Speaker to Flood Control Scam

A former aide to Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co has made startling allegations that connect former House Speaker Martin Romualdez to the ongoing flood control corruption investigation that has gripped Congress.\n\nOrly Regala Guteza, who was employed as a security consultant by Co, testified before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee that he was routinely assigned to transport suitcases laden with cash — euphemistically called \"basura\" — to both Co’s condominium and Romualdez’s residence in Taguig.\n\nGuteza asserted that each suitcase contained approximately P48 million. He recounted a specific delivery involving 46 suitcases, of which 35 were brought to Romualdez’s McKinley Street home, while 11 remained at Co’s unit in Horizon Residences, Pasig.\n\n\"I personally carried those luggages to the addresses. On at least three occasions, I was part of the team that delivered the \"garbage\" to Congressman Co’s condo and to Speaker Romualdez’s house,\" Guteza stated during his Senate testimony.\n\nHe emphasized that these exchanges were routine operations, with various members of Co’s staff rotating to manage the continuous cash transfers.\n\nIn a sworn affidavit submitted to the committee, Guteza also implicated Benguet Representative Eric Yap, claiming Yap once delivered 46 suitcases filled with money directly to Co’s residence in Valle Verde 6.\n\nThese shocking disclosures add significant weight to the expanding investigation into alleged kickbacks involving flood control projects, a scandal that has already ensnared numerous legislators and contractors.\n\nAs the Senate inquiry proceeds, Guteza's testimony implicates some of the most influential figures in Congress, potentially marking one of the largest corruption cases in recent Philippine political history.

Former Security Aide Alleges Delivery of Cash to Speaker's Properties Near Malacañang

Orly Guteza, once a security aide to Ako Bicol Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, has revealed that he personally delivered large sums of money to locations believed to be connected to the Speaker. Guteza stated that suitcases filled with millions of pesos were taken to Co’s residence in Taguig and subsequently to the home of then-House Speaker Martin Romualdez. In addition to these deliveries, Guteza admitted to transporting cash to an area near Malacañang Palace, specifically in front of Gate 4, which he described as "allegedly the Speaker’s house." This disclosure comes shortly after Romualdez’s resignation as Speaker earlier this month, following intensified scrutiny over alleged corruption in flood control projects. Guteza also implicated former ACT-CIS Representative Eric Yap, claiming that Yap delivered 46 suitcases loaded with money to Co’s residence in Valle Verde. According to Guteza, Co’s aides received and counted the cash before it was moved to Horizon Residences in Taguig, where Co’s unit is located. Some of these money-filled suitcases were then reportedly forwarded to Romualdez’s residence. These testimonies underscore the widening scope of the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within government projects and officials. The claims raise critical questions about the involvement of high-profile legislators in suspected illicit activities, prompting calls for further inquiry and accountability.

Benguet Rep. Eric Go Yap Denies Involvement in Flood Control Corruption Scandal

Benguet lone district Representative Eric Go Yap has strongly refuted allegations linking him to the widespread corruption scandal surrounding flood control projects that has recently captured national attention. In a statement released to House of Representatives reporters on Thursday, September 25, Yap described it as "painful" to be associated with such accusations. "I was disheartened to hear my name mentioned during today’s Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on alleged irregularities in flood control projects. To be implicated in these matters is painful, not only for myself, but also for the constituents I serve with integrity," Yap stated. He categorically denied any involvement in the purported illegal activities, asserting, "I have never accepted, nor authorized, the delivery of any money related to flood control projects. These allegations are baseless." Yap’s name surfaced during the hearing following claims by Orly Guteza, who identified himself as a former security consultant for Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co. Guteza alleged that Yap once brought 46 suitcases filled with money to Co's residence at a time when Yap represented the ACT-CIS Party-list. Addressing the accusation, Yap expressed willingness to confront his accuser but emphasized the need for a proper and lawful setting. "I welcome the opportunity to face the witness who implicated me, but only in the appropriate forum and under proceedings that respect my constitutional rights. It is my duty to my constituents, my family, and the Filipino people to clear my name legitimately," he said. He further underscored his dedication to public service, stating, "My work has always been driven by service rather than self-interest. I remain resolute in this mission and confident that ultimately, truth and justice will prevail. The actual perpetrators behind this national scandal will be identified and brought to justice."

Senator Escudero, Mayor Binay Deny Corruption Allegations in DPWH Probe

During a hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Thursday, Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero firmly rejected allegations of corruption made against him by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Roberto Bernardo. Escudero highlighted Bernardo's admission that they never discussed the alleged corrupt activities directly, branding the accusations as "false and damaging" to his character. The senator expressed concern that the allegations appear to be part of a deliberate effort to undermine the Senate and its members, stating, \"It seems like there is a well-orchestrated plan to attack the Senate and its members to destroy and discredit the institution and to divert the public’s attention from the real perpetrators… I will prove that he is lying about my alleged involvement.\" Escudero also questioned why the testimony implicated only senators, noting, \"If we are to base it on Usec. Bernardo’s testimony, they all have no fault or involvement here. That doesn’t seem believable.\" He committed to confronting the accusations legally by filing charges against Bernardo for what he described as baseless claims. Similarly, former senator and current Makati Mayor Nancy Binay denied any involvement in corruption linked to flood control projects overseen by the DPWH. Bernardo’s claim that Binay received approximately P37 million from 2024 projects was branded by her as untrue. Mayor Binay responded, \"I am shocked and saddened that I am being implicated in the anomalies of the DPWH. The accusations against me are baseless.\" She defended her record of public service, emphasizing her integrity and stating, \"It is easy to make false and damaging statements. But my performance in public service has always been above board and beyond a shadow of doubt.\" Binay added that she had been focusing on her duties as mayor and felt she was unfairly targeted to divert focus from the investigation. The ongoing inquiry by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee continues to explore these allegations, with key figures vocally rejecting the charges as politically motivated and inaccurate.

Senate Calls for Thorough Background Check on Surprise Witness in Blue Ribbon Probe

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo "Ping" M. Lacson on Friday emphasized the necessity of conducting a comprehensive record check and background investigation (RCBI) on Orly Regala Guteza, a surprise witness whose testimony at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing has significant implications. Guteza, who appeared before the committee without prior notice on September 25, claimed to be a former Marine and ex-security consultant for Representative Elizaldy Co. During his testimony, Guteza alleged that he delivered suitcases of cash, codenamed "basura (trash)," to the residences of Co and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Romualdez and Co have both denied these accusations. Senator Lacson, who chairs the Blue Ribbon Committee, raised concerns about the unexpected presentation of Guteza, stating that such a serious testimony warrants a thorough background review. "Without the courtesy of notice even to the committee chairman, a totally surprise witness in yesterday’s Blue Ribbon hearing, a complete record check and background investigation on Orly Regala Guteza is in order owing to the gravity and seriousness of his testimony yesterday," Lacson remarked in a post on social media. Adding to the controversy, the lawyer whose signature and notarial details appear on Guteza’s affidavit publicly denied any involvement, describing the signature as "falsified and unauthorized." Attorney Petchie Rose Espera clarified that she did not notarize, sign, or participate in preparing the affidavit. Senator Rodante Marcoleta introduced Guteza to the hearing, alleging that the witness was referred to him by former Representative Michael Defensor. Regarding Representative Co’s possible participation in the ongoing investigation into questionable flood control projects, Lacson stated that Co may voluntarily attend the Senate probe. He clarified that inter-parliamentary courtesy is extended not to individual lawmakers but to their respective institutions. "The tradition is not accorded, not to individual members of either house, it is accorded to the institution," Lacson explained, suggesting no barrier to Co’s appearance before the committee. The Senate’s call for a detailed inquiry into Guteza’s background reflects the gravity of the allegations shared and the committee’s commitment to ensuring the integrity of its proceedings.

Lawyer Defends Validity of Senate Witness Affidavit Despite Notarization Issues

Attorney Wilfredo Garrido maintained that the affidavit of Senate witness Orly Guteza remains valid despite concerns over improper notarization, explaining that any defect was rectified when Guteza affirmed the statement under oath before the Senate. Garrido's remarks followed lawyer Petchie Rose Espera’s denial of notarizing Guteza’s affidavit, claiming that her signature and notarization details were "falsified and unauthorized." Orly Guteza, introduced unexpectedly by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, identified himself as a former security aide to Ako Bicol Representative Elizadly “Zaldy” Co. He alleged that ACT-CIS party-list Representative Eric Yap delivered suitcases filled with cash to Co’s residence. Guteza further claimed that he and other aides transported these funds to the home of then-Speaker Martin Romualdez. Despite the notarization controversy, Garrido argued that a defective notarization does not automatically invalidate a document. He cited jurisprudence that such defects merely remove the document’s public document status, making the evidence subject to evaluation based on the preponderance of proof. "In this case, the defect of the notarization of Guteza’s affidavit was cured when he swore to its contents anew before the Senate hearing," Garrido noted. He also attributed responsibility for the flawed notarization to Senator Marcoleta but cautioned against dismissing the testimony outright. "It is the job of the inquisitor to cross-examine him and, if his testimony stands up, then you would have it give him credence," he explained. Garrido further stated that being presented as a witness by Marcoleta does not imply that Guteza is not telling the truth. "In this investigation of government corruption, there is no DDS, Iglesia, dilawan or loyalist. There is only the truth," he concluded.

Paolo Contis Shares Supportive Message as Ex Lian Paz Marries New Partner

MANILA, Philippines — Actor Paolo Contis continues to demonstrate a respectful and supportive stance following the marriage of his ex-wife Lian Paz to her longtime partner, John Cabahug. John Cabahug recently shared moments from their civil wedding, held at Mandaue City Hall in Cebu, on his Instagram account. In the caption, he wrote, \"I love you forever, Lian,\" and later expressed gratitude toward friends and well-wishers in the comments, saying, \"To everyone who wishes me and Lian the best on our wedding day, we see all your messages. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.\" Lian Paz also posted about the event on her Instagram, highlighting that her daughters Xonia, Xalene, and Nina were part of the ceremony. Nina is Lian and John’s nine-year-old daughter, while Xonia and Xalene are children from Lian’s previous marriage to Paolo Contis. Paolo and Lian were married in 2009 but separated three years later. In an interview, Paolo confirmed that their marriage had been annulled a few months ago, which legally cleared the way for Lian to remarry. When asked about Lian and John’s wedding, Paolo expressed his contentment, stating simply, \"I’m happy for them.\" Demonstrating ongoing cooperation and goodwill, Paolo recently reunited with Lian and their daughters during John Cabahug’s 38th birthday celebration. He took the opportunity to thank John for caring for his daughters and commended Lian’s strength and nurturing nature. \"Lian, you have always been kind and forgiving. This is why hindi kayo pinabayaan ni Lord. I appreciate all your efforts in talking to John about that day. Thank you for being strong and for how you nurtured the kids to have beautiful heart,\" Paolo shared. This display of mutual respect and support underscores the actors’ commitment to co-parenting and maintaining family harmony despite past challenges.

Ethics Panel Ends Jurisdiction Over Elizaldy Co Following Resignation

The House Committee on Ethics and Privileges has relinquished its authority over former Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy Co following his resignation. Speaker Faustino Dy III confirmed that the responsibility to investigate and hold Co accountable now rests with agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). During a press briefing on Monday, Speaker Dy stated, \"His resignation has been submitted; therefore, we believe it is now up to the DOJ and ICI to determine what actions they may take.\" He emphasized the necessity of Co's return, adding, \"It is imperative that he comes back by any means possible so he can be held responsible for the issues at hand.\" Speaker Dy also revealed that Co requested travel clearance citing \"personal leave,\" without specifically mentioning a medical reason. \"We hope he can substantiate his stated medical condition preventing his return. At the very least, he should have provided a medical certificate, but none has been presented,\" Dy remarked. Two weeks ago, Speaker Dy revoked Co's travel clearance, ordering him to return to the Philippines within 10 days, a deadline which fell on Monday, September 29. Adding to the controversy, Navotas City Representative Toby Tiangco has filed an ethics complaint against Co. The complaint accuses Co of evading questions related to budget insertions and his alleged involvement in questionable flood control projects. The evolving situation highlights the challenges of ensuring accountability for public officials who leave office under a cloud of suspicion and underscores the role of government agencies in enforcing ethical and legal oversight.

Senator Dela Rosa to Push for Zaldy Co's Appearance at Flood Control Senate Hearing

Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa announced on Tuesday, September 30, his intent to urge the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to summon resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co to the forthcoming flood control investigation. In an ambush interview, Dela Rosa clarified that Co is no longer protected by the customary interparliamentary courtesy following his resignation. The senator further stated that if Co refuses to attend, a subpoena will be issued, followed by a show-cause order. However, if Co remains absent, the committee will seek the issuance of a warrant of arrest to compel his appearance. \"If he doesn\'t appear, it will be followed by a subpoena. After that, issuing a show cause doesn\'t make sense since he won\'t be there to respond. At that point, it\'s already grounds for a warrant, and the committee will ask the Senate leadership to issue an arrest warrant,\" Dela Rosa explained. He also noted that beyond the committee\'s possible warrant, Co faces multiple arrest warrants related to cases filed by the Department of Justice. \"Aside from the committee\'s warrant, if there is a court-issued warrant stemming from DOJ cases, he will be confronted with several warrants,\" the senator added. Dela Rosa emphasized that even members of the majority bloc advocate for Co\'s invitation as he remains central to the alleged irregularities involving flood control projects. He further expressed that Co\'s resignation does not suffice in addressing the issue. \"Resigning is insufficient. What is required is a comprehensive investigation. If it leads to prosecution, then prosecution. If it warrants conviction, then conviction. This is what the public demands,\" Dela Rosa stated.