A witness associated with former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co claimed to the Sandiganbayan Third Division that he transported briefcases filled with money to notable politicians including former Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III, former Marikina Representative Stella Quimbo, and former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV.
Rodante Orbillo, a former bodyguard of Co and part of a group colloquially known as the "Maleta Boys," made this revelation during the third day of a bail hearing for former Speaker and Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez. The case relates to allegations of graft concerning kickbacks from government projects.
During the proceedings, Associate Justice Ronald Moreno inquired if Orbillo had delivered briefcases to individuals other than Romualdez. Initially, Orbillo hesitated to disclose names but later named Sotto, Quimbo, and Trillanes as recipients of the alleged money-laden briefcases.
Justice Moreno emphasized the importance of this information for assessing the credibility of the witness, especially since previous witnesses in similar flood control cases had also mentioned other notable figures.
The hearings regarding Romualdez's bail petition commenced earlier this month and are set to continue until November 12, 2026, as the prosecution presents its witnesses. Trillanes has denied the accusations made against him, while Sotto and Quimbo have not yet issued statements regarding the claims.