Marcoleta denies conspiracy claims tied to flood fund controversy

MANILA — Sen. Rodante Marcoleta rejected suggestions that he and former congressman Mike Defensor conspired with retired Marine Master Sergeant Orly Guteza, whose recent retraction of testimony against former Speaker Martin Romualdez has fueled fresh controversy over the alleged flood control fund misappropriation.

Marcoleta characterized such a conspiracy as "improbable," arguing instead that the circumstances surrounding Guteza's recantation pointed to other explanations. The senator implied that threats or external pressure were more credible factors in the witness's decision to reverse his previous statements implicating Romualdez.

The flood control fund case has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers and the public alike, with questions mounting about the handling of government resources. Guteza's original testimony had been considered significant evidence, making his recent recantation a major development in the ongoing investigation.

Marcoleta's statement comes as various parties associated with the case attempt to distance themselves from allegations of coordination or impropriety. The senator's denial adds another layer to the increasingly complex narrative surrounding the fund controversy and its central figures.