Quezon city: Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez is preparing to file a supplemental counter-affidavit before the Office of the Ombudsman, contesting claims by the group known as the '18 Maleta Boys' that they delivered suitcases filled with cash to him, as announced by his legal counsel and spokesperson on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lawyer Ade Fajardo revealed that the supplemental document will incorporate sworn statements from 25 former drivers and security aides of Representative Zaldy Co. These individuals have reportedly disputed the allegations presented by attorney Levito Baligod's group of witnesses.

During a press conference at a restaurant along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City, Fajardo, representing Romualdez, stated that the 25 former personnel have denied delivering money to any politician or government official, including Romualdez. He emphasized that these individuals were allegedly persuaded to participate as witnesses in exchange for money, with affidavits already prepared for them.

Fajardo further mentioned that the supplemental affidavit would include the recantation of retired Marine T/Sgt. Orly Guteza, who initially linked Romualdez to the alleged flood-control scandal. Guteza retracted his previous testimony, claiming he was offered money to falsely implicate the former House leader. He detailed how he was allegedly coerced into signing accusations meant to position him as the crucial connection to Romualdez in the case.

The lawyer asserted that the witnesses were induced and pressured to implicate Romualdez, pointing out the numerous contradictory stories. He stated that these inconsistencies clearly demonstrate the lack of evidence against Romualdez.

Fajardo expressed confidence that a fair investigation would reveal the baseless nature of the accusations against the former House speaker, who has consistently denied involvement. The '18 Maleta Boys' have accused several personalities, including Romualdez, of receiving cash-filled suitcases.

The Ombudsman is currently investigating these allegations along with other related claims in the flood control controversy. Filing the supplemental counter-affidavit will enable Romualdez's camp to officially submit the additional sworn statements and other material that they argue refute the accusations.