PACC Raises Alarm Over Allegations Involving High-Ranking Officials; Vows Full and Independent Investigation
The Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar (PACC), under the leadership of Chairman Dr. Louie F. Ceniza, PhD, expresses deep concern over the serious allegations made publicly by resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co, including claims of irregular cash deliveries, questionable transactions, and purported budget insertions amounting to billions of pesos.
Chairman Ceniza underscored that the statements of Mr. Co—especially those involving supposed “male-maletang pera” allegedly delivered to former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and another maleta said to have reached Malacañang—are extremely alarming. These revelations, paired with allegations of a ₱100-billion budget insertion said to have been coursed through DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and former Speaker Romualdez from the President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., raise profound concerns over possible large-scale corruption and abuse of authority.
“We take these allegations with utmost seriousness. Claims that implicate some of the highest officials in government cannot be ignored or dismissed. They demand a full, fair, and independent investigation, grounded in facts and evidence, to protect the integrity of our institutions and the trust of the Filipino people,” Chairman Ceniza said.
He stressed that while Mr. Co’s statements remain allegations, the gravity and potential national impact of these disclosures require immediate scrutiny. The PACC emphasizes that no public official—regardless of rank—is above the law, and that accountability must always prevail when questions of corruption arise.
Chairman Ceniza reaffirmed the PACC’s unwavering commitment to its mandate:
“The PACC will continue its investigation into all reported acts of corruption related to these allegations. Our duty is to safeguard public funds, uphold transparency, and seek the real truth behind what is now unfolding in our country. We owe this to the Filipino people.”
The PACC assures the public that it will pursue this matter without fear or favor and will coordinate with relevant agencies as necessary to uncover the full circumstances behind the allegations.
“In these challenging times, the Filipino people deserve honesty, integrity, and decisive action. Rest assured that the PACC will always stand on the side of truth and justice,” Chairman Ceniza added.