Newly installed National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag has ordered an investigation into the exposé made by 18 individuals claiming to be former members of the Philippine Marines.

In a confirmation to DZRH News, Matibag said the bureau has begun verifying the “personal circumstances” of the supposed former soldiers, according to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort on DZRH's Damdaming Bayan program.

It can be recalled that, in the revelations of the former Marines, Atty. Levi Baligod stated that the cash deliveries amounted to ₱805 billion, sent to government officials including President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

According to the claims, the alleged deliveries took place from 2022 until mid-2025, with as many as four deliveries per week. The cash, reportedly referred to as “basura” was said to be transported in up to 52 suitcases filled with money.

The group also accused several congressmen who signed the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte of receiving funds.

The allegations are already under scrutiny in the Senate, where Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo "Ping" Lacson described the claims as a possible attempt to “destabilize” the administration.

Lacson said Wednesday that the 18 individuals may soon be summoned by the Senate to shed light on their accusations.

In a separate interview on DZRH, Baligod said the joint affidavit of the 18 individuals will be submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman once it has been notarized.

Aside from top government officials, the affidavit also implicated former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, alleging that he received $2 million from resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co to fund an investigation before the International Criminal Court (ICC) or for other purposes.

Trillanes firmly denied the accusation on Tuesday, calling it a “blatant lie” and vowing to file charges against those behind the claim.