Former security aides of former Congressman Zaldy Co gather during a press conference organized by former Congressman Mike Defensor on June 16. Maria Tan, ABS-CBN News
MANILA — Fourteen individuals who claimed to be former bagmen of ex-congressman and fugitive Zaldy Co have posted bail after being charged with cyber libel and perjury before different Metro Manila courts, their lawyer Levito Baligod said Friday.
In a chance interview at the Las Piñas City Regional Trial Court, Baligod said he and his wife shouldered all the bail expenses, amounting to more than P1 million in the Las Piñas court alone for the four counts of perjury filed against each of the 14 individuals.
They also posted bail before courts in San Juan City, Caloocan City, and Muntinlupa City for the cyber libel charges.
“You want to know where it came from? From my wife and my personal resources. Ay, you do not underestimate our love for this country,” Baligod told reporters.
RECANTATION
The so-called "Maleta Boys," who claimed they delivered suitcases containing hundreds of millions of pesos in alleged kickback money to high-ranking politicians, originally numbered 18.
Four of them later withdrew their testimonies, alleging they had been coached by their legal counsel on what to say in exchange for two years' worth of financial assistance for their security and safety.
Baligod described the allegation as an “exaggeration,” saying he had only offered to help with their families' needs, such as medical expenses. He maintained that his actions were motivated by patriotism.
“I consider them my responsibility because we were together when we agreed to bring out to the poor kung ano ‘yong nalalaman nila tungkol dito sa corruption,” Baligod said. “Pilipino ako. Mahal ko ang ating bayan.”
Meanwhile, the remaining members of the group claimed the four recanted their testimonies after allegedly being offered P20 million to P25 million to reverse their statements.
“Sana mapag-isipan niyong mabuti ‘yong sinasabi niyo. Nagpadala kayo sa pera,” said George Villalon of the "Maleta Boys."