Former congressman says Recto solicited girls from talent manager

MANILA — Former Negros Oriental Representative Jacinto "Jing" Paras on Friday rejected assertions that Executive Secretary Ralph Recto fell victim to a "honey trap" operation, stating instead that the government official actively solicited sexual services through a talent manager.

Paras made the assertion shortly after the National Bureau of Investigation began looking into the matter. The former congressman characterized the talent manager in question as operating in a capacity akin to a "pimp," suggesting Recto knowingly engaged with the individual to arrange such services.

The allegations mark an escalation in the controversy surrounding Recto, whose office handles executive functions for the Marcos administration. The claims by Paras contradict earlier suggestions that the Executive Secretary may have been entrapped or manipulated in the situation.

The NBI's involvement underscores the seriousness of the allegations, which touch on potential misconduct by a senior government official. The investigation is expected to determine the nature and extent of Recto's involvement in the alleged transactions.

As of Friday, Recto has not publicly responded to Paras's assertions.