LACSON DISMISSES ZALDY CO’S TESTIMONY AS “JUST A STORY”

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Panfilo “Ping” Lacson dismissed former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co’s video statement as “just a story” with no probative value since it was not made under oath.

In the video, Co accused President Ferdinand Marcos, his cousin Martin Romualdez, and some Cabinet members of allegedly inserting P100 billion in the national budget.

Malacañang also rejected Co’s claims as hearsay, which Lacson said he agrees with, noting that the budget process makes Co’s allegations implausible.

Lacson questioned why the President would make insertions at the bicameral conference level when he has control over the National Expenditure Program, pointing out that the President is not involved in bicam meetings.

The committee also canceled plans to allow Co to participate via Zoom, citing concerns his testimony could be used for propaganda, though Lacson said an oath taken at a Philippine embassy could make his statement valid.

Source: PhilNews24 | November 15, 2025