The Philippine Navy has issued a strong denial regarding allegations that they are holding retired Sergeant Orly Guteza, the crucial witness who claimed to have delivered millions in cash to House Speaker Martin Romualdez. The controversy centers around alleged anomalies in flood control projects that have rocked the Philippine political landscape.
Navy's Official Statement
In an official statement released on November 18, 2025, Philippine Navy spokesperson Captain Marissa Martinez categorically denied that Guteza or his family are under naval custody. The Navy described these claims as completely unfounded and lacking any factual basis.
Captain Martinez emphasized that immediate verification procedures were conducted upon learning about the allegations. Inspections and intelligence validations confirmed that Mr. Guteza is not under Navy custody or protection in any form, she stated.
The Navy official reinforced the institution's commitment to democratic processes, stating they fully recognize the importance of accountability and transparency. The Navy does not, and will never, harbor, conceal, or shield any individual from legal processes, she declared.
Political Accusations and Counterclaims
The situation escalated when former Anakalusugan representative Mike Defensor alleged that Guteza was being illegally detained by the naval infantry force's intelligence unit. Defensor claimed that Guteza was forced to sign an affidavit retracting his original testimony.
According to Defensor's statements, Guteza was pressured to claim that he had been paid by former congressman Mike Defensor and Senator Rodante Marcoleta to make false allegations against Romualdez. Defensor expressed understanding for Guteza's situation, noting that when family members are threatened, anyone might change their story.
Background of the Corruption Allegations
Orly Guteza served as security personnel for Ako Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy Zaldy Co from December 5, 2024, to August 2025. During his Senate testimony, Guteza made explosive claims about delivering luggage containing millions of pesos in cash to Romualdez's residences in Pasig and Taguig.
The cash deliveries, reportedly referred to as trash in their communications, occurred at least three times during Guteza's employment period. Representative Co corroborated Guteza's testimony through his own video statement, adding credibility to the allegations.
Guteza has been absent from public view since his testimony. He failed to appear before a Manila Regional Trial Court twice regarding charges that his sworn statement contained a forged notary public signature. His absence continued during the resumed Senate blue ribbon committee investigation on November 14, 2025.
The case continues to develop as political tensions rise around the flood control project anomalies investigation. All parties await further developments in this high-stakes political drama that threatens to expose corruption at the highest levels of Philippine government.
