Former Senator Trillanes Emphatically Denies $2 Million Bribery Allegations
Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV has issued a forceful denial regarding accusations that he accepted a $2 million bribe from former Representative Zaldy Co. The alleged payment was purportedly intended to fund the International Criminal Court's investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte. In a public statement, Trillanes declared, "I vehemently deny that I received $2M or any amount from Zaldy Co for the ICC investigation or any other purpose. This is an attempt to discredit the ongoing ICC proceedings against Duterte."
Cyberlibel Lawsuits to be Filed Against Multiple Accusers
Trillanes has announced his intention to file multiple cyberlibel cases against individuals he claims are spreading false information. The list of potential defendants includes prominent figures such as Atty. Levi Baligod, former Representative Mike Defensor, broadcaster Jay Sonza, and eighteen former soldiers. The former senator asserted, "This is not new to me. I will not be distracted. Hahabulin ko kayo," emphasizing his resolve to pursue legal action against those he accuses of defamation.
Allegations Stem from Press Conference and Affidavit Details
The controversy originated from a press conference held at Club Filipino, where eighteen former members of the Philippine Marines claimed they delivered millions of pesos to Trillanes. According to an affidavit presented by Atty. Baligod, these individuals, who served as executive assistants to Co, were allegedly instructed to exchange two suitcases each containing P56 million, equivalent to approximately $2 million. The former soldiers further alleged that Trillanes personally covered all expenses for ICC investigators during their visit to the Philippines in December 2023, including hotel accommodations, meals, transportation, and other costs.
Legal Proceedings and ICC Hearing Developments
Atty. Baligod has declined to distribute copies of the affidavit to media outlets, stating that the complaint will first be filed with the Ombudsman. Copies will also be provided to the ICC and its member countries. Meanwhile, the confirmation of charges hearing against former President Duterte continues this week in The Hague. Duterte faces three counts of crimes against humanity related to thousands of killings under his drug war campaign. The ICC is currently evaluating whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to a full trial.
