Politics · Philippines Bureau
Witness claims 'maleta boys' offered millions to recant statements
A former bagman-turned-witness has alleged that remaining members of the 'maleta boys' group were offered P10 million each to recant their testimonies in the plunder case against ex-House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — A key witness in the high-profile plunder case against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez told the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Tuesday that surviving members of the 'maleta boys' allegedly received P10 million offers to withdraw their statements.
Christopher Esquivel, a former bagman who turned state witness, made the revelation while testifying at Romualdez's bail hearing. According to Esquivel, the financial inducements were intended to undermine the credibility of testimonies that have proven central to the prosecution's case.
Romualdez faces plunder charges involving allegations that he received approximately P7.44 billion through illicit means. The so-called 'maleta boys' have previously provided testimony regarding the movement of substantial sums of money, allegedly linked to the charges against the former congressional leader.
The disclosure of alleged bribery attempts adds another layer to the ongoing legal proceedings, raising questions about possible efforts to obstruct justice. Esquivel's testimony is expected to play a significant role in determining whether Romualdez will be granted bail pending trial.