Remulla Points Finger at Romualdez Camp in ‘Maleta Boys’ Recantation
Manila, Philippines — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday directly accused the camp of Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez of orchestrating the recantation of three key witnesses in the sprawling “maleta” cash delivery scandal. The development has deepened the political rift between two powerful figures in the administration, and left many in the provinces watching closely.
The three men, former bodyguards of ex-Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, had earlier signed sworn statements detailing how they delivered suitcases stuffed with cash to Romualdez, Co, and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Those affidavits were part of a complaint alleging that the three men unlawfully amassed about P56 billion from 2022 to 2025. Now, the bodyguards have withdrawn their claims, saying they were pressured or tempted into lying.
Why Did the ‘Maleta Boys’ Recant?
The recantation came as a shock to many, especially since the Ombudsman had already built what Remulla called “a solid case.” In a press conference, Remulla said the move “just points out to the fact that there are people working to obstruct the ends of justice.” When asked directly if he was referring to Romualdez, Remulla did not mince words: “The camp of former Speaker Romualdez. His lawyers. His strategists. His advisors.” Pressed further, he added: “Of course! Of course! Who else? Who else would benefit if they recant?”
Romualdez, for his part, rejected the accusation as “absolutely not true” and “trumped up.” In a statement, he said: “This shows how extremely prejudiced he is against me. The recantations prove what I had been saying all along: that the accusations against me are false and trumped up. I will not be intimidated. I will face every accusation against me, defend myself with the facts, the evidence, and the truth.”
What Happens to the Ombudsman’s Case Now?
Remulla made it clear that the recantations do not weaken the case. “The affidavits are there for us to use, and we will use them. If they want to recant it, so be it, but it will be in the court already,” he said. He noted that courts generally frown upon recantations, which are often seen as unreliable. The Ombudsman will still present the original affidavits as evidence, alongside other supporting documents.
Were There Attempts to Bribe the Witnesses?
According to the bodyguards’ former lawyer, Levito Baligod, there were repeated attempts to bribe the men. “For a long time, there were attempts to bribe them,” Baligod said in an ambush interview in Las Piñas City. He could not say for certain if those who recanted were actually bribed, but he shared a telling detail: “One of them texted me, saying ‘Sorry, sir, because of the temptation I am experiencing.’”
Baligod himself has come under fire. Remulla cast doubt on his credibility, calling him “a colorful, a very colorful character.” When asked if he still trusts Baligod, Remulla replied: “Was he ever?”
What Does This Mean for the Administration?
The case has exposed tensions within the ruling coalition. Romualdez is a key ally of President Marcos, and the accusation against his camp could strain relations. At the same time, the Ombudsman’s office is seen as a bastion of anti-corruption efforts. For ordinary Filipinos, especially in rural areas, the “maleta” scandal is a reminder of how power and money can corrupt even the highest offices. The recantation, while legally shaky, also shows how hard it is to hold the powerful accountable.
As the case moves to court, one thing is clear: the fight is far from over. And for many, the question remains: who is telling the truth?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the ‘maleta boys’?
They are four former bodyguards of ex-Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co. They claimed they delivered suitcases of cash to Romualdez, Co, and President Marcos. Three of them have now recanted.
How much money is involved?
The complaint alleges that about P56 billion was unlawfully amassed from 2022 to 2025, some of which was delivered in suitcases.
Will the recantation affect the case?
Ombudsman Remulla says no. The original affidavits will still be used in court, and recantations are generally viewed with suspicion by judges.
What did Romualdez say?
He denied the accusations and called the recantation proof that the charges against him are false. He vowed to defend himself with facts and evidence.