The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in a Friday statement appealed for accuracy in referring to the 18 self-confessed former bagmen for former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co—to refrain from calling them “Marines.”

“For accuracy, we respectfully encourage the use of the individuals’ names, or simply refer to them as witnesses, affiants, or former staff/bodyguards of the concerned personalities, as appropriate,” the AFP said.

It explained that the bagmen were no longer among their ranks when they were serving under Co.

“While some reports have collectively described them as ‘Marines’ or ‘Ex-Marines,’ it is important to note that they were no longer in active military service at the time of the acts and allegations being discussed. These were undertaken in their private capacities and not on behalf of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” the AFP said.

Moreover, the agency pointed out that not all of the individuals in question are former members of the Philippine Marine Corps.

“As such, the use of the term ‘Marines’ may unintentionally suggest institutional involvement by the AFP or the Philippine Marine Corps.,” it explained.

On Thursday, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) revealed that former Congressman Mike Defensor may have bribed each bagman with ₱5 million to testify regarding anomalous flood control projects.

NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag said in a press conference that this information was based on the account of an unnamed individual with a direct relationship with one of the bagmen, according to a report by RH 15 Jecelle Ricafort.