Manila: Malaca±ang announced on Thursday that the recantation by former security aide Orly Guteza should lead authorities to investigate potential manipulation behind his initial allegations in the ongoing flood control scandal probe. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized the need for the Office of the Ombudsman, Department of Justice (DOJ), and other bodies to verify whether Guteza's original testimony or his recantation holds truth, and to identify any individuals responsible for potential fabrication.
According to Philippines News Agency, Guteza, a retired Marine and former security aide to ex-Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, recently withdrew his earlier testimony. Initially, he claimed to have delivered suitcases of cash to former House Speaker Martin Romualdez as part of a kickback scheme related to flood control. In a new affidavit dated August 13, Guteza stated that he had no personal knowledge of the cash deliveries and accused Senator Rodante Marcoleta and former lawmaker Mike Defensor of pressuring him to make the claims.
Castro acknowledged the serious nature of using false witnesses and fabricated evidence, noting the potential undermining of efforts to hold those responsible for irregularities accountable. She asserted that both Guteza's initial testimony and his recantation must undergo thorough verification to ensure credibility.
The Ombudsman maintained that Guteza's recantation would not halt its investigation, as 28 other witnesses with relevant information continue to be involved. Castro confirmed that the flood control investigation is ongoing, with the Ombudsman and DOJ conducting separate probes and Senate-gathered documents and evidence being handed over to the Ombudsman.
Castro conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s stance, indicating no specific reaction to Guteza's recantation but reaffirming the administration's commitment to due process, legality, and evidence-based investigations. Senator Panfilo Lacson commented on Guteza's recantation, expressing no surprise due to Guteza being identified as a "coached" witness during a past Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing. Lacson highlighted evidence from the hearing, including Senate CCTV footage of Guteza visiting Marcoleta's office, which supported claims of coaching.
Source: Philippines News Agency
