Blue Ribbon to still recognize Guteza testimony despite falsified affidavit — Lacson

Despite a Manila court’s recommendation to investigate the falsified affidavit of surprise witness Orly Guteza, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will continue to recognize Guteza’s testimony in its probe on the alleged flood control fund scandal.

Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 18 Executive Judge Carolina Iscasiano-Sison earlier recommended a preliminary investigation for falsification against Guteza and those who facilitated his affidavit, after finding that the signature on the document’s notarization was not that of Atty. Pechie Rose Espera. The lawyer denied notarizing Guteza’s affidavit, calling the signature and notarial details attributed to her “falsified and unauthorized.”

Guteza, a former Philippine Marine who claimed to be a security consultant for ex-Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, alleged during the Senate hearing last September 25 that he personally delivered suitcases of money to Co and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a cousin of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Guteza was introduced by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who said the witness came forward with the help of former Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor.

Lacson, who is poised to return as chairman of the Blue Ribbon Committee, clarified that the Manila RTC’s findings do not invalidate Guteza’s sworn statement before the Senate.

“The executive judge already issued findings. It was proven that the signature on his sworn statement was not that of the notary, Atty. Espera. But it doesn’t take away the validity of his sworn statement in the Senate. That’s different because he took an oath before the Blue Ribbon Committee,” Lacson explained.

He added that Guteza’s testimony “will remain valid and will be recognized” when the committee drafts its report, though he acknowledged that the witness’s credibility may be questioned.

Lacson also confirmed that the Blue Ribbon Committee is set to resume its hearing on the controversial flood control projects on **November 14**, and that Guteza will be invited or subpoenaed through the offices of Marcoleta or Defensor.

“A lot can be asked of him,” Lacson said. “While his sworn statement before the Blue Ribbon Committee is valid, there remains an issue of credibility regarding his claim that Atty. Espera notarized his affidavit.” TRACY CABRERA