Palace Says Recantation by Four Ex-Bodyguards Reveals Fabricated Claims Against Marcos Jr.

Malacañang on Friday stated that the recent recantation by four of the 18 alleged ex-bodyguards of former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co exposed how supporters of the Duterte camp allegedly orchestrated fabricated stories against President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and other officials in exchange for money. The four individuals withdrew their previous sworn statements accusing Marcos Jr., former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, Co, and other personalities of receiving suitcases of cash, admitting that their earlier claims were untrue.

Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro, in a video message, asserted that the pattern of Duterte supporters hiring people to concoct false narratives for financial gain was evident in this case. She suggested that this was part of a destabilization plan allegedly led by Mike Defensor and his associates.

The controversy began in February when a group of 18 men, identifying themselves as former security personnel of Co—some of whom were former Marines—publicly presented affidavits alleging they had delivered cash-filled suitcases to Marcos Jr., Romualdez, Co, and others. These affidavits were introduced by lawyer Levi Baligod.

However, the recent development saw four of these men signing new affidavits retracting their previous statements. They claimed that their initial joint affidavit was signed under the promise of financial assistance, implying coercion or inducement.

Castro emphasized that the investigation and any necessary actions regarding the so-called "maleta boys" allegations remain under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Ombudsman. She clarified that her statements represented only the position of President Marcos Jr. and not those of other individuals implicated in the controversy.

She urged the public to be cautious and not fall prey to schemes motivated by money, warning that such actions could unjustly damage the reputations and lives of innocent people. Castro’s message was a call for discernment amid politically charged accusations.

This episode highlights the ongoing political tensions and the challenges faced by government officials in addressing allegations that may be politically motivated. The recantation by the four ex-bodyguards raises questions about the credibility of the initial claims and the motivations behind them.

The Office of the Ombudsman is expected to continue its investigation into the matter, assessing the validity of the affidavits and the circumstances surrounding their execution. Meanwhile, the Palace maintains its stance that the allegations were fabricated as part of a destabilization effort against the current administration.