Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Tuesday said that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has recommended the filing of cyber libel and perjury charges against Atty. Levito Baligod and 18 alleged "bagmen" of fugitive former congressman Zaldy Co.

In a Facebook post, Trillanes said the DOJ has issued a resolution recommending that the charges be filed in court against Baligod and the 18 respondents.

"More to come," Trilanes added.

Based on a copy of the resolution shared by Trillanes, the recommended charges stem from the respondents' alleged preparation and signing of a joint sworn statement dated Feb. 23, as well as statements made during a press conference held at Club Filipino on Feb. 24, 2026.

The resolution also cited subsequent statements, reports, and posts published on Facebook and other online platforms as part of the basis for the recommended cyber libel charges.

The DOJ resolution recommended that Baligod and the 18 respondents be charged with one (1) count of cyber libel under Section 4(c)(4) in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Among those recommended for prosecution were the following:

• Atty. Levito Baligod
• Belnard Tube
• Rosebert Waupan
• Benny Bulontate
• Johnny Buduan
• Rodante Orbillo
• Reyneboy Julian
• Christopher Esquivel
• George Villalon Jr.
• Romeo Rommel Bobares
• Gil Navidad Jr.
• Anselmo Taberdo
• Joely Cadiao
• Rommel Galapon
• Cecilio Larroder Jr.
• Bernard Gumban
• Crisanie Dado
• Fidel Corpuz
• Walter Manalansan

The 18 individuals previously identified themselves as former aides of Co and alleged that they had delivered suitcases containing cash to lawmakers in connection with the controversial flood control scam.

The allegations, which were publicly aired during the February press conference, became part of the broader controversy surrounding the alleged misuse of flood control funds.

As of posting, Baligod and the other respondents have yet to issue a statement on the DOJ's recommendation.