By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency
Malacañang on Tuesday described as mere “trash” the testimonies of the 18 former bodyguards of dismissed Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, saying alleged inconsistencies in their statements would not stand in court.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the supposed discrepancies in their testimonies cast doubt on their claims regarding the alleged deliveries of suitcases containing cash to government officials.
“Basura. Tutal sabi naman nila, sila ay naghahakot ng basura,” Castro told Palace reporters.
She raised concerns over retracted or inconsistent statements, including the omission of Sen. Loren Legarda’s name from a list of officials purportedly linked to kickbacks.
“So, itong mga klase na mga statements na ito na pinuna rin na bakit ang abogado ang nagsasalita at hindi iyong 18 kargador or 18 maleta boys, hindi po ito tatayo sa korte,” she added.
Asked how Malacañang characterizes the revelations of the former bodyguards, Castro said the statements would not withstand judicial scrutiny.
She maintained that allegations must be supported by consistent and verifiable evidence before they can be given weight in legal proceedings.
“Yung ganitong klaseng mga statements na pabago-bago, hindi po ito makakapasa sa masusing mga pag-aaral at pagsusuri ng korte. So, dito pa lamang po ay makikita na natin kung ano-anong klase ang mga kuwento nila para makapanira lamang,” she said.
Co’s former security aides have claimed that they delivered bags and luggage filled with cash to several politicians and prominent personalities.
The Philippine Navy earlier said four out of the 18 alleged former Marines were never part of the service, while the majority had been dishonorably discharged.
