Lacson: Manila court may help in probing surprise witness controversial affidavit

Metro Manila, Philippines - A Manila court may help in looking into the controversial affidavit of a surprise witness at the Senate blue ribbon committee inquiry on the flood control scandal, Senator Panfilo Lacson said.

During the panel hearing on Thursday, Senator Rodante Marcoleta introduced surprise witness Orly Guteza, who claims he was Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co’s security detail.

Guteza testified that he delivered suitcases of kickbacks from flood control projects for Co and former House speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez.

Lawyer Petchie Rose Espera, whose name appeared on the document, denied any participation in Guteza’s affidavit, which stated it was signed in Manila.

“The Manila RTC (regional trial court) can help unravel the mystery behind the now (in)famous Guteza affidavit since part of the executive judge’s function is to investigate violations relating to notarized documents within its jurisdiction,” said Lacson, blue ribbon committee chairman.

“Was he just made to sign a prepared affidavit that he read during the committee hearing, and by whom?” Lacson posted on social media on Friday evening, Sept. 26.

Lacson’s office noted that Marcoleta was “observed to be coaching Guteza by prompting him on what to say from his affidavit” during the inquiry.

Guteza’s former colleagues – Mark Bunagan and Allan Colesio – whom he mentioned in the hearing as involved in the cash deliveries, debunked his testimony.

The National Bureau of Investigation recommended the filing of charges against 21 lawmakers, Department of Public Works and Highways officials, and government contractors for their supposed involvement in the flood control fiasco.

The charge list did not include Romualdez who was named in the Senate inquiry due to Guteza’s questionable affidavit and failure to meet with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.