National Security Adviser Eduardo Año on Thursday rejected allegations by individuals claiming to be former Marines that he received a cash-filled paper bag.

In a statement released by the National Security Council, Año called the accusations “malicious,” insisting they are “entirely false and fabricated.”

“I categorically reject and denounce the malicious, unsigned affidavit purportedly from eighteen ex-Marines accusing me of receiving a paper bag after a meeting at the Polo Club townhouse,” Año said.

"To set the record straight, I have never attended any meeting with former Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Cong Zaldy Co and Cong Leila De Lima... nor did I receive any paper bag or package from them. These claims are entirely false and fabricated," he added.

Año said his legal team is prepared to take “all necessary actions” to protect his reputation.

“I will not tolerate attempts to smear my reputation,” he emphasized.

The adviser also announced that his office will conduct its own investigation into the matter.

“We will determine whether this malicious stunt—given its timing amid the ICC hearings, the EDSA anniversary, and the planned ‘One Time Big Time’ mass action—is part of a broader effort to undermine or destabilize government institutions,” Año said.

“I urge the public to be discerning and not be swayed by misinformation. Rest assured, the government will continue to address legitimate concerns through proper channels and uphold the rule of law at all times,” he added.

The controversy began on Tuesday when 18 individuals, presented as former Marines, along with their lawyer Atty. Levito “Levy” Baligod, alleged the delivery of suitcases containing approximately ₱805 billion in cash.

They claimed the money came from kickbacks linked to anomalous flood control projects and implicated several politicians, including President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. The Malacañang earlier, dismissed the accusations, labeling them a “lousy script” and lacking credibility.