Eighteen men described as former Marines failed to appear at a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing in Manila on Monday, June 8, 2024 [1].
The absence of these individuals stalls a high-profile investigation into a flood-control controversy. The probe focuses on allegations of systemic corruption and the use of intermediaries to facilitate bribes within public works projects.
The Gatchalian bloc-led committee summoned the 18 men [1], who have been labeled as "bagmen" for their alleged roles in taking bribes [1], [2]. Their lawyer, Levi Baligod, also did not attend the proceedings [1]. The hearing was specifically convened to uncover the mechanics of the bribery scheme and identify the officials involved in the flood-control scandal [2].
Senate investigators sought testimony from the former Marines to determine how funds intended for infrastructure were diverted. The committee had issued invitations for the group to attend the June 8 hearing to provide evidence, or testimony, regarding the alleged illicit payments [2].
Despite the summons, the 18 men were absent when the hearing opened [1]. The committee is now tasked with determining whether to issue subpoenas or other legal mandates to compel the attendance of the alleged bagmen and their legal counsel.
The investigation remains active as the Gatchalian bloc continues to demand answers regarding the missing funds and the identity of the coordinators behind the bribery network [1].
“Eighteen men described as former Marines failed to appear at a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing”
The refusal of the alleged bagmen to testify creates a significant evidentiary gap for the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. By avoiding the hearing, these individuals prevent the committee from establishing a direct link between the bribery payments and the government officials who may have authorized the flood-control contracts, potentially delaying legal accountability for the corruption scandal.
