Sixteen of the 18 self-proclaimed former marines and security aides for resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, accompanied by their lawyer, Atty. Levito Baligod, appeared before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Thursday, following a subpoena against them.

The NBI is currently conducting an investigation into their identities, backgrounds, and credibility to validate the veracity of their exposé, reported RH 15 Jecelle Ricafort.

According to NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag, the bureau will probe the supposed former soldiers’ alleged personal knowledge and participation in Co’s illicit dealings.

Earlier, the ex-marines came forward, accusing several government officials of accepting suitcases of cash, which they had delivered on Co’s orders, who is a key figure in the multi-billion peso flood control scandal.

Baligod assured that these men have nothing to gain from accusing people in the highest seats of power.

“They don’t have anything to profit from accusing people in high position ng kasinungalingan. Isipin mo ordinaryo lang ‘tong sundalo na mamamayan, and they are accusing people in the highest places of government. Mahirap ‘yun diba?” Baligod told the media.

“‘Yung mga nagsasabi sa inyo na binayaran, sila ang tanungin niyo,” he countered questions regarding bribery, adding that receiving threats were “normal.”

In addition, former Congressman Mike Defensor’s wife, Julie Defensor, and his lawyer, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, also came to the office of the NBI pursuant of its subpoena in connection with the so-called former marines’ exposé.

Julie Defensor did not confirm whether her car was used in the deliveries.

They alleged that their cash deliveries amounted to a total of ₱800 billion, including deliveries to President Ferdinand Marcos’ and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez’s residences.