MANILA, Philippines — The “whistleblower” floated by Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who claimed that suitcases of cash were sent to lawmakers as kickback, is not detained by the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), the Philippine Navy said on Tuesday.
The Navy, which oversees the PMC, made this statement as former Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor said that retired Sgt. Orly Guteza is now reportedly being held by the naval infantry force’s intelligence unit.
Defensor further said that Guteza was first taken for supposed protection but is now allegedly being detained against his will, according to a television interview.
“Mr. Guteza is not under Navy custody or protection in any form,” Navy spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez said in a statement.
Martinez said this was based on the Navy’s thorough verification, including inspections and intelligence validations.
“Claims regarding the custody, protection, or safekeeping of Mr. Orly Regala Guteza and his family by the Navy, particularly the Philippine Marine Corps, are unfounded, unsupported by evidence and have no basis in fact,” she said.
Martinez stressed that the Navy is a “professional and disciplined institution” that upholds constitutional process and democratic institutions.
“We fully recognize the importance of accountability, transparency, and the duty of every citizen to appear when summoned,” Martinez said.
“The Navy does not, and will never, harbor, conceal, or shield any individual from legal processes,” she added.
Guteza was...
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