LAWMAKERS RAISE CONCERNS OVER TIMING OF CASH-IN-SUITCASES CONTROVERSY

Several lawmakers have questioned the timing of allegations that they received cash in suitcases, calling the claims a politically motivated “demolition job.”

Mamamayang Liberal Party Rep. Leila de Lima, named in the accusations, denied the claims and said they coincided with hearings involving former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court and upcoming impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega and other lawmakers called the allegations baseless, pointing out that many of the affidavits came from discredited or delisted individuals.

The claims were part of a list provided by supposed Marine officers, naming lawmakers involved in past investigations of Duterte-era human rights violations and confidential fund usage.

Critics argued the accusations are meant to distract from accountability for the Dutertes, with several lawmakers emphasizing that the documents are unsigned or fabricated.

Source: PhilNews24 | February 26, 2026