Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson accused Sen. Rodante Marcoleta of acting as a mouthpiece for China and detained contractors Sarah and Curlee Discaya, criticizing Marcoleta’s past statements on the West Philippine Sea and the Kalayaan Island Group.
During a heated privilege speech, Lacson highlighted Marcoleta’s alleged acceptance of money, creating a “debt of gratitude,” which he said could constitute indirect bribery under the Revised Penal Code.
Marcoleta denied being pro-China and called Lacson’s speech a series of “ad hominem” attacks that avoided the real issues, including his proposal to map the West Philippine Sea.
The confrontation stems from a leadership change in the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, which Marcoleta formerly chaired, and disagreements over inquiries into alleged kickbacks involving President Marcos.
Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation found inconsistencies in affidavits from 18 individuals claiming to have delivered kickback money, raising doubts about the credibility of their narrative.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 11, 2026
