The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has declared that the accusations made by 18 self-proclaimed ex-Marines regarding the delivery of millions of pesos in cash to several high-ranking government officials lack sufficient evidence and probable cause to warrant criminal charges.
During a consultation meeting with the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee under Senator Gatchalian's bloc on Monday, June 8, 2026, NBI Director Melvin Matibag presented the bureau's findings, stating that the group's joint affidavit was weak. He described the statements as largely hearsay, lacking documentary evidence, and showing signs of being orchestrated.
Investigation Background
The NBI investigation began after the submission of a joint affidavit on February 23, 2026, by a group of former security personnel allegedly linked to fugitive and former congressman Zaldy Co, under the representation of their lawyer Levito Baligod. The affidavit contained numerous allegations about the delivery of large sums of money amid the government's ongoing investigation into alleged anomalous flood control projects.
One of the first aspects examined by investigators was the group's consistent portrayal of themselves as former Marines. Matibag noted that the NBI checked military service records and found that this description did not apply to all group members.
"The group uses the term Marines to project integrity and discipline," Matibag said.
According to Philippine Marine Corps records, 12 of the 16 individuals with military backgrounds were discharged from service due to serious offenses, while the rest were former Army personnel, reservists, or civilians.
Proposed Renaming
Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee under the Gatchalian bloc, suggested renaming the NBI investigative unit previously called Task Force Marino. He said continuing to use that name would be unfair to the Philippine Marine Corps and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Matibag indicated they might rename it to Task Force Bodyguard or Task Force Bellboy.
Evidence Deficiencies
According to the NBI report, most of the allegations in the affidavit did not come from the witnesses' personal and direct knowledge. Matibag revealed that investigators found only about 10 to 20 percent of the statements were based on firsthand or actual observation, while the majority of information was pieced together from details allegedly passed among group members.
"Personal experience is stronger evidence. If it was only heard from others, that is hearsay and has weak probative value," he added.
Matibag further stated that investigators failed to obtain CCTV footage, receipts, cellphone records, bank documents, or authentic photographs that could corroborate the alleged delivery of millions in cash.
