Politics · Philippines Bureau
Duraboxes used to transport alleged kickbacks, Sandiganbayan hears
A witness testifying in an anti-corruption case revealed that durable plastic containers were used to transport cash intended as alleged kickbacks before the practice shifted to suitcases. The disclosure came during a Sandiganbayan hearing involving a former congressman.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Witness Rodante Orbillo told the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday that alleged bagmen for former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co used duraboxes — sturdy plastic storage containers — to transport cash linked to purported kickback schemes.
Orbillo's testimony revealed the operational methods employed in what prosecutors allege was a systematic scheme to collect illicit payments. According to the witness account, the practice of using the plastic boxes preceded a later shift to suitcases, or "maleta," as bagmen continued their alleged activities.
The revelation forms part of ongoing proceedings before the anti-graft court's Third Division as investigators examine the financial dealings connected to the former lawmaker. The specifics of how the containers were employed and the scale of alleged payments remain subjects of the court's examination.
The case underscores investigative efforts to trace the movement of funds in high-profile corruption allegations affecting public officials. Authorities have been systematically documenting the methods and mechanisms used in what they characterize as systematic corruption schemes.