Former VP Duterte Aide Alleges Millions in Bank Transfers for Intelligence, Laundering
In a dramatic turn during the impeachment hearings against Vice President Sara Duterte, Ramil Madriaga, who presented himself as a former aide and "bagman" for the Vice President, has made explosive allegations regarding financial transactions involving close associates of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Madriaga submitted a supplemental affidavit to the House Committee on Justice on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, claiming he was used as a conduit for millions of pesos intended for intelligence operations and money laundering.
Bank Accounts Opened Without His Presence
Madriaga testified that despite earning only between P100,000 and P150,000 for his services, significantly larger sums passed through bank accounts opened under his name by individuals he described as close associates of Duterte. He emphasized that he never personally opened these accounts or appeared before the banks to process any applications. Instead, they were established by people close to the former president, who informed him that money would be transferred to these accounts for intelligence operations and laundering purposes.
According to his affidavit, Madriaga stated, "I admit that during PRRD's term as President, I served as a dummy for the transfer of large amounts of money. These transfers were made through bank accounts. However, I have never personally opened these accounts or appeared before the said banks to process any application in relation thereto."
Instructions to Sign Blank Checks and Collect Funds
Madriaga further revealed that he was later instructed to sign blank checks from checkbooks issued under these accounts, with the amounts and payees to be filled in afterward. He explained that he agreed to this arrangement at the time due to his trust in Duterte and the people around him. On some occasions, Duterte would call him to inform him that someone from the banks would contact him to confirm a withdrawal or encashment of checks.
He also recalled instances where Duterte directed him to personally visit banks to pick up money and deliver it to Malacañang or designated individuals. One specific allegation involved being instructed to collect P100 million each time from a bank located in a mall in Lubao, Pampanga, which he claimed he later delivered to Malacañang.
Alleged Delivery of Manager's Checks to Safehouse
In another incident, Madriaga alleged that two manager’s checks issued under his name—amounting to P84.2 million and P4.8 million—were delivered to a supposed safehouse in Eastwood, Quezon City. These details add to the gravity of his claims, painting a picture of complex financial maneuvers involving substantial sums.
Willingness to Cooperate with Investigations
Madriaga has expressed his readiness to execute additional affidavits and authorize access to bank records to support his allegations. He is prepared to allow the House Committee on Justice and the courts to examine accounts under his name, underscoring his commitment to transparency in this high-stakes impeachment proceeding.
His testimony has intensified the scrutiny on the financial dealings of those close to the former president, raising serious questions about the use of public funds and the integrity of banking processes during Duterte's administration. As the impeachment hearings continue, Madriaga's claims are expected to fuel further investigations and debates in the political arena.
