Senators Erwin Tulfo and Vicente Sotto III said they would pursue libel and cyberlibel cases against 18 individuals presenting themselves as former Marines, along with their lawyer Levi Baligod, over accusations linking them to alleged irregularities in flood control projects involving former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co.
The lawmakers confirmed their plan in separate messages on Friday, following a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing where the group reiterated claims of cash-filled suitcases allegedly delivered to several personalities.
Tulfo said he would file a libel complaint after the next committee hearing, describing the statements aired during the proceedings as defamatory and baseless.
Sotto said he was considering cyberlibel charges, citing that the allegations were made publicly and repeatedly, which he said could strengthen the case under existing laws.
Both senators said they were drawn into the controversy for political reasons, insisting that the accusations lacked factual basis and were being used to advance political narratives.
Tulfo said the issue was being tied to speculation about his political plans, including talk of a possible run in 2028, which he said was fueling the spread of false claims.
Sotto, for his part, said the allegations were meant to damage his reputation and affect his relatives in public office, including Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.
He also rejected claims linking him to alleged cash deliveries, pointing out inconsistencies in the testimonies and maintaining that no such transactions involving his camp ever took place.