Lacson seeks background check on witness alleging payoff scheme

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson is calling for a thorough background check on Orly Regala Guteza, a witness who testified before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

Guteza, claiming to be a former security consultant for Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, alleged he was instructed to deliver suitcases of money to the homes of Co and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

He further claimed these deliveries occurred three times a week from December 2024 until his resignation in August.

Lacson highlighted that Guteza's appearance as a witness was a surprise and not pre-announced to the committee, which is contrary to Senate rules.

Adding to the suspicion, the lawyer whose signature appeared on Guteza's affidavit denied having prepared or notarized the document, suggesting falsified notarial details.

Romualdez has vehemently denied Guteza's claims, labeling them as a fabrication.