Iloilo Representative Firmly Denies Involvement in Controversial Cash Delivery Claims
Iloilo City Representative Julienne "Jam" L. Baronda has issued a strong denial regarding her alleged involvement in accusations made by former Marine Belnard Tube. Tube claimed he personally delivered a suitcase containing an undisclosed amount of money to the residence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Forbes Park, Makati, and to another location in Ilocos Norte.
Details of the Allegations and Baronda's Response
In a press statement, Representative Baronda categorically rejected any connection to the allegations, which have surfaced amid heightened political tensions. "I choose not to engage in falsehoods and will instead pray for truth and fairness to prevail," Baronda stated, emphasizing her commitment to integrity.
She further clarified that her name has never appeared in any official inquiries conducted by key governmental bodies, including:
- The House of Representatives
- The Senate
- The ICI (International Criminal Investigation)
Baronda speculated that her name might have been dragged into what she termed a "political circus" due to her association with a local personality who was critical of the previous administration and is assisting her in navigating local politics.
Broader Context and Unconfirmed Claims
The allegations by Tube, who also claimed that former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co accompanied him during the alleged delivery, remain unverified. No official government bodies have confirmed the claims, and the exact amount of money purportedly in the suitcase has not been disclosed.
This issue has emerged during a period of intense political exchanges involving figures linked to both the previous and current administrations. Importantly, no formal charges or documented findings have been established that connect Baronda to the incident.
Other Named Individuals and Official Silence
Other reports have mentioned additional names in relation to this matter, including:
- Uswag Party-list Representative James "Jojo" Ang
- Iloilo First District Representative Janette Garin
- Former Kabataan Party-list Representative Raoul Manuel
To date, Malacañang has not issued any official statement addressing Tube's allegations. Representative Baronda expressed confidence in the discernment of the Ilonggo people, trusting them to judge the situation based on truth and factual evidence.
