Manila: National Security Adviser Eduardo A±o on Thursday firmly denied the accusations made in an "unsigned affidavit" by 18 alleged Marines, claiming that he was handed a paper bag after a meeting at the Polo Club townhouse with former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, former House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez, and Rep. Leila De Lima. A±o emphasized that these allegations are baseless and concocted.

According to Philippines News Agency, A±o clarified, "To set the record straight, I have never attended any meeting with former Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Congressman Zaldy Co, and Congresswoman Leila De Lima in the Polo Club townhouse or in any other location, nor did I receive any paper bag or package from them. These claims are entirely false and fabricated." He further stressed his commitment to defending his reputation, indicating that his legal team is prepared to take necessary actions.

A±o also announced that his office will initiate its own investigation to verify if this incident is part of a larger scheme to disrupt or destabilize government institutions, especially amid the International Criminal Court hearings, the 40th EDSA anniversary, and the planned 'One Time Big Time' mass action. He appealed to the public to remain vigilant against misinformation, assuring that the government is committed to addressing valid concerns through appropriate channels and maintaining the rule of law.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy (PN) responded to the claims by stating that four of the 18 individuals reportedly associated with the Philippine Marine Corps were never part of the service, and the majority of them had been dishonorably discharged. "Based on official records, (four) were never members of the PN or the Philippine Marine Corps. Majority of the individuals were discharged dishonorably from the service, while others were able to retire in good standing," PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez confirmed.

These statements came in the wake of allegations that these individuals delivered PHP805 billion to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Romualdez. The Palace has rejected these allegations as deceptive, labeling them as part of a "lousy script."