Senator Raffy Tulfo expressed serious doubts about the credibility of 18 ex-Marines at a Senate flood control consultation on June 8, 2026. His concerns center around inconsistencies in the group’s testimonies and allegations regarding their military backgrounds.
Inconsistencies in Testimonies Raise Questions
For people to believe their allegations, it must come from a credible and reliable source. — Senator Raffy Tulfo
Raffy Tulfo, Senator
- Claims of transporting cash and witnessing transactions involving political figures.
- Allegations of military service questioned, with some members reportedly discharged.
During the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee meeting, led by Senator Erwin Tulfo, Senator Raffy Tulfo highlighted discrepancies in the accounts of the ex-Marines. He noted that not all individuals had served in the Marine Corps, undermining their portrayal as credible witnesses.
Among the striking claims was a supposed interaction involving an 'iPhone time-travel' incident, where a witness cited a model that had not yet been released. This discrepancy prompted Tulfo to stress the importance of verifying the timeline of testimonies.
Additionally, Tulfo pointed out that initial accounts included detailed allegations of cash deliveries to various politicians. However, these specifics were notably absent in later statements, raising further doubts about the integrity of the claims.
The senator also mentioned the lack of evidence supporting a money-changing operation claimed by one of the witnesses, who alleged large currency conversions at a specific location in Makati. His office found no record of such an establishment at the site in question.
Critically, Tulfo has called for a more thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the testimonies, including claims that the ex-Marines may have received financial incentives to speak against public figures.
Despite the significance of the inquiry, the group of ex-Marines and their legal representatives did not attend the Senate proceedings, opting instead to hold a separate press conference. Their absence was met with criticism from Acting Senate President Win Gatchalian, who emphasized the necessity of accountability in such serious allegations.