Law Firm Challenges VP Sara Duterte's Denial of Connections to Former Aide
A prominent law firm has raised serious questions regarding Vice President Sara Duterte's recent denial of any association with her former aide, Ramil Madriaga. Madriaga has previously accused the Vice President of accepting 2022 campaign funds from alleged drug lords and Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). The legal representatives from Palad Lauron Palad & Te, who are acting on behalf of Madriaga, assert that they possess compelling evidence which directly contradicts the Vice President's statements.
Evidence Presented by the Legal Team
According to the law firm, this evidence includes a variety of documented materials such as formal invitations, video recordings, digital screenshots, sworn testimonies, and public statements. These items are said to clearly demonstrate past interactions between Vice President Duterte and Madriaga, suggesting a closer relationship than previously acknowledged. The firm emphasizes that these pieces of evidence are substantial and warrant further scrutiny from the public and authorities.
Disputing Claims in the Cyberlibel Case
In addition to challenging the Vice President's denial, the law firm has also addressed the denial made by Col. Raymund Dante Lachica, the former chief of security for VP Sara, in relation to an ongoing cyberlibel case against Madriaga. The firm points to sworn affidavits and official congressional records which indicate that Madriaga was introduced to Lachica through other government officials. Furthermore, they allege that significant amounts of confidential funds were transferred to Lachica, raising questions about the transparency and integrity of these financial dealings.
The legal team notes that while Lachica has filed a case against Madriaga, no legal action has been taken against the state officials who testified about these events. This discrepancy has led the firm to question the motives and consistency of the accusations being leveled against their client.
Clarifications on Madriaga's Background
The law firm took the opportunity to clarify several misconceptions about Madriaga's background and relationship with Vice President Duterte. They stated that Madriaga never claimed to be a classmate of the Vice President; rather, he was merely a schoolmate at San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila. Additionally, the firm clarified that Madriaga was not a member of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) but served as a specialized trainer, highlighting a distinction in his official role.
Regarding past legal issues, the firm mentioned that Madriaga has no kidnapping cases on his record, apart from a 1997 case for which he was acquitted in 2003. This clarification aims to address any lingering doubts about his character and legal standing.
The ongoing developments in this case continue to attract significant attention, as they touch on issues of political integrity, campaign finance, and legal accountability in the Philippines.
