The findings from an investigation conducted by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) shows that one of the “handlers” of the 18 “maleta boys” or self-confessed bagmen linked to former lawmaker Elizaldy Co is a former official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

COMELEC Chairman George Garcia’s revelation comes in response to allegations that he had accepted money from Co, reported RH 9 Tina Nolasco.

“Nagi-initial (investigation) na po ako. In fact, kilala ko po ‘yung handler. Sa 18, isa lang doon ang nag-aakusa at alam ko na rin ‘yung mga bankroll ng bawat isa sa kanila. For example, ‘yung isa mga handlers diyan ay dating opisyal ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Wala na po siya (sa AFP), matagal na ring wala sa AFP, may kaso nga po e, na hinaharap sa DOJ,” Garcia told the media.

The poll body chair said he was personally investigating the former bagmen and other individuals involved in their exposé in order to build a case against them.

He recalled inconsistencies in the bagmen’s accounts, among which is an initial claim that four suitcases were delivered to Garcia. In a more recent testimony, the bagmen alleged that he received only small bags of cash.

Garcia appealed to the 18 men to reexamine their actions and statements, as charges they will face will also affect their families.

The bagmen accused Garcia of having accepted ₱10 million in flood control kickbacks from Co.

On June 4, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said the 18 bagmen may have been bribed by former Congressman Mike Defensor with ₱5 million each, according to an account from an individual living with one of the bagmen.