Lanao del sur: Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong on Friday said he is seriously considering filing a libel case against the individuals accusing him of receiving cash-filled luggage, saying the controversy has gone beyond a personal attack and is now disrupting the work of the Senate. Adiong, spokesperson of the House prosecution panel in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, is among the lawmakers accused by a group of 18 former Marines of allegedly receiving cash delivered on behalf of former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co.
According to Philippines News Agency, Adiong initially dismissed the allegations as baseless, describing them as "pure nonsense" in a radio interview. He had received advice from some lawyers months ago to file a libel complaint but chose to ignore it. However, with recent attempts to elevate the allegations to the Senate level, Adiong is now contemplating filing a serious libel charge.
The House trial spokesperson emphasized that the issue extends beyond individual accusations and is now affecting the legislative process. He described the situation as the Senate being "hostaged" by a diversionary narrative, which he believes is delaying legislative work crucial for ordinary Filipinos. This includes the proposed KALINGA Act and other key Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) measures.
Adiong expressed frustration over the delay in legislative progress, stating that the issue is hindering the country's advancement. He also questioned the motives of senators who previously refused to sign a partial report of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee but are now advocating for further inquiry.
Moreover, Adiong pointed out that the former Marine officers have reportedly refused to sign sworn affidavits as part of the Senate's official records, fearing perjury charges. He argued that the public perceives the allegations as an attempt to derail efforts to hold public officials accountable, particularly in the impeachment case against the Vice President.
In conclusion, Adiong asserted that the accusations are primarily a public relations stunt meant to confuse the public and hinder the accountability process. He remains committed to pursuing legal action to address what he views as a significant disruption to the nation's legislative progress.
