Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste reiterated on Monday that he was telling the truth regarding Executive Secretary Ralph Recto’s “pambababae” or philandering.

Leviste claimed Matibag knows him well, and so also knows his allegations were no fabrication.

In a Facebook post, he said that National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Atty. Melvin Matibag was a family friend and one of his mentors as a neophyte in politics.

“Sasabihin ko na lang na, dahil kilala mo ako, alam mong hindi ako sinungaling, at totoo ang sinasabi kong ‘Gawang Recto’ lang ang kwentong ito,” he wrote.

The lawmaker said he understands that Matibag has only been ordered to investigate him, and forgives him.

Back in August of 2025, Matibag purportedly expressed pride in Leviste via a message, adding that he hopes to live long enough to witness him as head of state.

“Congrats Cong. Lian! I’m so proud of you. I hope I get to live long enough to see you one day leading our country. It’s such an honor to know you. God bless you always!” read the private chat screenshot shared by Leviste.

On July 31, Leviste denied that he was involved in Recto’s alleged womanizing. He claimed he did not talk to the parties involved in the sex scandal the Palace official has found himself in.

“Wala akong kinalaman sa diumano’y pambababae ni Recto sa Rockwell. Mapapatunayang hindi ko kailanman nakausap ang mga taong ito. Maaaring si Recto ang sumagot kung kilala niya sila. Hindi ko nais makialam sa kanyang personal na buhay,” the lawmaker said in a post.

On Monday, August 3, Matibag told reporters that the NBI will be sending subpoenas for Leviste and former Congressman Jacinto “Jing” Paras over the honeytrap allegations against Recto.