The Philippine Navy (PN) on Thursday denied claims that controversial Senate witness Orly Guteza is under the custody or protection of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC).
PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Arlene Martinez clarified that Guteza had retired from the Marines on June 30, 2020, and is no longer under the Navy’s administrative authority.
“As a retired serviceman, he no longer falls under the administrative authority of the PN. Any engagements or interactions he may have at present are undertaken in his personal capacity,” Martinez said.
She stressed that Guteza “is not under the protection of the PMC, which has no involvement in his personal affairs.”
Reports earlier surfaced that Guteza, who claimed during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing that he delivered suitcases of money to the homes of former lawmaker Zaldy Co and former Speaker Martin Romualdez, was in Marine custody for security reasons.
“The PN remains committed to its mandate as a professional and non-partisan organization, dedicated to upholding national sovereignty and serving the Filipino people with honor and integrity,” Martinez added.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson also refuted the reports, saying Marine Commandant Maj. Gen. Vincent Blanco III confirmed that Guteza was never in their custody.
“As per verification made with the Marine Commandant, MGen Vince Blanco (PMA Cl ’91), through fellow cavaliers, Guteza is not and has never been under their custody. How much more fakery can we take?” Lacson posted on X.
Lacson further revealed that a Manila court found inconsistencies in Guteza’s notarized affidavit and recommended a preliminary investigation for possible falsification. Senate CCTV footage also reportedly showed Guteza visiting Senator Rodante Marcoleta’s office before his appearance at the hearing.