Witnesses withdraw allegation that Senator Legarda received cash-laden luggage

The individuals previously identified as former employees of Representative Zaldy Co and accused of delivering cash-filled suitcases to Senator Loren Legarda have withdrawn their allegation, according to their lawyer, Levito Baligod.

Speaking on Monday, June 8, Baligod said the two men, whom he referred to as “ex-soldiers,” admitted that their earlier claim was mistaken and have since retracted the accusation that Legarda received two luggage bags allegedly containing cash from former Congressman Zaldy Co.

"Ang maaalala namin sir, with due respect, pasensya na, sabi: Wala kaming nakitang maleta na nakapasok doon sa gate," Baligod said.

He revealed that he had even sought the assistance of former lawmaker Mike Defensor to gain access to Legarda and personally convey the correction.

Baligod also acknowledged that the senator may pursue legal action against the two individuals for their earlier statement. "Kung gusto ni Senator Loren na kasuhan yung dalawa, ibinibigay ko ang ebidensya. Pwede niyang kasuhan ng perjury yung dalawa kung gusto niya," he said.

"Pero as I said, we are man enough to admit a mistake, and brave enough to rectify it," he added. According to Baligod, the correction was made as early as March.

The original allegation claimed that Legarda received two medium-sized suitcases in 2024, supposedly containing cash delivered on behalf of Co.