National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año on Thursday rejected the allegations that he received a ‘paper bag’ from individuals claiming to have worked for former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co as part of his team that delivers cash to some politicians and government officials.
In a statement released by the National Security Council, Año called the allegations “malicious,” “entirely false,” and “fabricated.”
“I categorically reject and denounce the malicious, unsigned affidavit purportedly from eighteen ex-Marines accusing me of receiving a paper bag after a meeting at the Polo Club townhouse,” the NSA said.
“To set the record straight, I have never attended any meeting with former Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Cong. Zaldy Co, and Cong Leila De Lima in the Polo Club townhouse or in any other location nor did I receive any paper bag or package from them,” he added.
De Lima also refuted the “preposterous” charges. “Sobrang nakakatawa ang pinalalabas nilang isa ako sa mga pinadalhan o tumanggap ng maleta (It is extremely laughable that they are making it appear that I was among those who received a suitcase),” she said in a social media post.
The House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list representative described the accusation as a “clear demolition job” and “concoction of lies,” adding that she absolutely and firmly denies the “ridiculous claim.”
Año said his legal team is ready to take “all necessary actions” as he does not tolerate attempts to smear his reputation. He echoed the position of other personalities similarly accused in the said affidavit regarding its suspicious timing.
“We will have our own investigation to determine whether this malicious stunt—given its timing amid the ICC hearings, the EDSA anniversary, and the planned ‘One Time Big Time’ mass action—is seemingly part of a broader effort to undermine or destabilize government institutions.
“I urge the public to be discerning and not be swayed by misinformation. Rest assured, the government will continue to address legitimate concerns through proper channels and uphold the rule of law at all times,” he added.
On Tuesday, 18 personalities who were introduced as supposed former soldiers, with their lawyer Levito “Levy” Baligod, claimed to have delivered suitcases filled with cash worth about P805 billion that originated from kickbacks in anomalous flood control projects to various politicians.
