MISLEADING: Romualdez to file perjury charges against Sen. Marcoleta

A Facebook post by an account named “Makata ng Bayan” stated that former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who currently faces plunder, direct bribery, graft and corruption, and money laundering charges, will personally file perjury against detained Senator Rodante Marcoleta. The post comes four days after ex-Marine recants his statement against Romueldez while accusing Marcoleta and former lawmaker Mike Defensor of pressuring him.

CLAIM:

The post claimed that Romualdez will file perjury complaints against Marcoleta

RATING:

Misleading

CONCLUSION:

While Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said that the two may face perjury complaints from Marcoleta and be barred from public office, the former House Speaker has sought only the dismissal of his plunder raps, not legal action against the detained senator.

THE FACTS:

• Ex-Marine Orly Guteza, who had previously testified that he personally delivered suitcases filled with cash to the residence of Romualdez, recanted his testimony against the former House Speaker. He further alleged that he was coerced by Romualdez and Defensor to falsely include Romualdez in the scheme.
• Senator Lacson said on Sunday that the accused could face subordination of perjury charges for supposedly coaching Guteza.
• There is no official statement from the former House Speaker’s legal team that he will indeed press charges against Marcoleta. However, Romualdez is currently seeking the dismissal of his plunder complaint filed against him by the Office of the Ombudsman.

BOTTOMLINE:

The post is misleading. While Senator Lacson explained the possibility, Romualdez has yet to file complaints against Marcoleta.