Former Marines Present Explosive Affidavits Alleging Cash Deliveries to Top Officials
In a dramatic press conference held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, prominent lawyer Levito Baligod unveiled several former members of the Philippine Marines who previously served as security personnel for resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co. The event, which has sent shockwaves through political circles, featured detailed allegations of systematic corruption involving high-ranking government figures.
Affidavits Detail Cash Delivery Operations
Baligod revealed that the affidavits from eighteen soldiers, which await final signatures and notarization, contain explosive claims about their duties while serving under Representative Co. According to the lawyer, these documents allege that their responsibilities included delivering luggage packed with cash to numerous high-ranking government officials. The list of alleged recipients includes President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
The affidavits reportedly include comprehensive testimonies, photographic evidence, and supporting documents that meticulously detail the entire cash delivery process. Baligod explained during the press conference that the contents outline how public funds were allegedly stolen from the national treasury. He stated that many contractors across the Philippines who were promised government projects had been remitting money to Zaldy Co even before receiving their official contracts.
"An example of the process begins with them counting the money," Baligod elaborated. "Next, the money is carefully prepared before being placed into suitcases for delivery to the residence of a lawmaker."
Corroborating Testimonies and Previous Revelations
The testimonies from these eighteen former Marines appear to corroborate earlier statements made by retired Sergeant Orly Guteza. Guteza previously testified before a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee investigation examining irregularities in flood control projects. In his testimony, Guteza claimed that between December 5, 2024, and August 2025, he personally delivered luggage containing millions in cash to Romualdez's residences in Pasig and Taguig on at least three separate occasions.
Interestingly, the security personnel reportedly referred to the cash as "trash" during these operations. This was the last time Guteza made a public appearance before Tuesday's revelations. In a separate video statement, Zaldy Co himself has corroborated Guteza's previous testimony, adding credibility to the emerging narrative.
Allegations Extend to International Criminal Court Investigation
Baligod further disclosed that the former Marines were involved in what he described as "an important operation related to the ICC." According to his statements, soldiers were included in operations conducted by International Criminal Court investigators in the Philippines. The ICC personnel first arrived in the country in December 2023, but preparations allegedly began even earlier.
"Before December 2023, they were ordered to exchange pesos into dollars—two suitcases, with each suitcase containing P56 million," Baligod revealed. He added that according to Zaldy Co's executive assistants, preparations were made for the arrival of foreigners who turned out to be ICC investigators.
The lawyer claimed that the operation involved interviewing witnesses allegedly endorsed by former Senator Sonny Trillanes, with no other individuals being interviewed. Baligod alleged that funds were given to Trillanes to handle arrangements for the ICC investigators, while vehicles, food, and hotel accommodations were shouldered by both Zaldy Co and Trillanes. Specifically, Baligod stated that former Senator Sonny Trillanes received approximately $2 million as part of these arrangements.
Legal Actions and Official Responses
Baligod announced his intention to submit the affidavits to multiple authorities, including the Office of the Ombudsman, the International Criminal Court, and its member countries. This move suggests the allegations may have international implications beyond domestic Philippine politics.
Former Senator Sonny Trillanes has vehemently denied all accusations, specifically refuting claims that he received $2 million or any amount from Zaldy Co for the ICC investigation against former President Rodrigo Duterte. "This is an attempt to discredit the ongoing ICC proceedings against Duterte," Trillanes stated firmly.
Trillanes has threatened legal action, announcing: "I will be filing cyberlibel cases against Levi Baligod, Mike Defensor, Jay Sonza, the 18 ex-soldiers, and all those who are maliciously circulating this blatant lie. This is not new to me. I will not be distracted. I will pursue legal action against all involved."
Military Response and Verification Urged
In response to the allegations, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla provided clarification about the individuals involved. According to Padilla, four of the eighteen individuals presented by Baligod were never members of the Marine Corps. The majority of the others were discharged dishonorably from the Marine Corps, while some retired in good standing.
The AFP has issued a public statement urging citizens to verify the accuracy of information before sharing it, emphasizing the importance of preventing the spread of misinformation and disinformation during this sensitive period. The military's response highlights the complex verification challenges surrounding these serious allegations.
As the story continues to develop, these affidavits and allegations have created significant political turbulence, raising questions about corruption, accountability, and the integrity of governmental processes at the highest levels of Philippine leadership.
