Pharmally Executives Allegedly Bankrolled VP Sara's 2022 Presidential Bid, Witness Testifies
In a dramatic revelation during a House Committee on Justice hearing, witness Ramil Madriaga disclosed that executives from the controversial Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation allegedly funded the presidential campaign of Vice President Sara Duterte during the 2022 elections. This testimony has sent shockwaves through political circles, raising new questions about campaign finance and corporate influence in Philippine politics.
Details of the Alleged Funding Scheme
According to Madriaga's sworn statement, he was personally instructed by former President Rodrigo Duterte to establish a group named "Inday Sara Is My President" or ISIP, which was intended to spearhead the campaign efforts. The witness provided specific details about the financial transactions, claiming that Lin Wei Xiong, a key figure, delivered a staggering ₱175 million in cash at a hotel located in Quezon City. This substantial sum was purportedly allocated to support various campaign operations and logistical needs.
Additional Funds and Shifting Campaign Plans
Madriaga further testified that when the initial funds were depleted, the group secured an additional ₱100 million from an individual referred to as "Maestrado Lim." This person is allegedly connected to Tony Yang, the brother of Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to the Duterte administration. The witness emphasized that these funds were explicitly used for campaign-related activities, but the strategy underwent a significant shift when Sara Duterte ultimately decided to run as vice president alongside President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., rather than pursuing the presidency herself.
Implications and Ongoing Investigations
This testimony adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigations into Pharmally, a company already under scrutiny for its involvement in pandemic-related procurement controversies. The allegations of corporate financing in political campaigns could have far-reaching consequences, potentially influencing public trust and electoral integrity. The House Committee on Justice is expected to continue its hearings, with lawmakers likely to demand further evidence and testimonies to verify these claims. As the story develops, it underscores the intricate relationships between business interests and political ambitions in the Philippines.
