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.