PHILIPPINES: Pork Barrel Fund Scam whistleblower Atty. Levi Baligod has ignited a new controversy surrounding the International Criminal Court (ICC) probe into the Philippines’ war on drugs. In a recent press conference, Baligod alleged that ICC investigators were “wined and dined” by individuals known to be political opponents of the subjects of their investigation, raising questions about the integrity of the probe.
Speaking in San Juan City on Tuesday, February 24, Baligod presented 18 former Marines who claimed they worked for Zaldy Co and were tasked with delivering suitcases of money to high-ranking officials. However, the most explosive claim centered on ICC officials. Baligod alleged that funds from a flood control scandal were diverted to cover the expenses of ICC investigators.
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Allegations of Corruption and Bias
According to Baligod, the former Marines were ordered to convert suitcases containing P56 million for “foreigners,” later identified as ICC personnel. He claimed these investigators were set to interview witnesses allegedly selected by former Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV. The lawyer argued that the investigators compromised their impartiality by allowing their accommodations, food, and transport to be paid for by critics of the Duterte administration.
“The ICC investigators, themselves, committed graft and corruption,” Baligod stated, questioning why they accepted hospitality from known enemies of the people they were investigating. He announced plans to file a complaint before the Ombudsman regarding these incidents, which allegedly took place in private properties rather than government offices.
Trillanes Denies Involvement, Plans Counter-Suit
Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV swiftly responded to the accusations, vehemently denying any involvement in bribery or funding ICC activities. In an official statement, Trillanes dismissed Baligod’s claims as a “blatant lie” designed to discredit the ongoing ICC proceedings against former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“I vehemently deny that I received $2M or any amount from Zaldy Co for the ICC investigation or any other purpose,” Trillanes declared. He framed the accusations as a distraction tactic and warned that he would not be swayed.
Trillanes vowed to take legal action against those spreading the allegations. He announced his intention to file cyber libel cases against Atty. Baligod, the 18 former Marines, and other personalities including Mike Defensor and Jay Sonza. “I will go after you,” the former senator warned, signaling a looming legal battle between the two camps.
Implications for the Drug War Probe
These exchange of accusations adds another layer of complexity to the controversial ICC investigation into the previous administration’s anti-narcotics campaign. As the legal threats escalate, the focus now shifts to how these allegations might impact public perception of the international body’s findings and the credibility of the witnesses involved.