Batangas 6th District Rep. Ryan Recto defended Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on Tuesday after Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste alleged questionable ties between the Cabinet official and a fellow legislator during a plenary session in the House of Representatives.

Recto rejected claims made by Leviste linking his father, Ralph Recto, to alleged irregular dealings with CWS Party-list Rep. Edwin Gardiola.

Speaking on the plenary floor, Ryan Recto described the allegations as “fake news” and said the relationship between Gardiola and the executive secretary was strictly professional.

“On the alleged ties between Cong. Gardiola and ES Recto, their association is purely professional… there are no personal interest involved but only a shared commitment to fulfill their duties to their constituents.”

He said both officials share only a commitment to serve their constituents and denied any personal or improper interests.

Recto also cautioned against using the plenary to air unverified claims, emphasizing the need for fact-based discussions and responsible legislative oversight. He said he would not allow what he described as unfounded accusations to be presented as truth.

“Hindi po tayo basta-basta nagpapadala sa mga inimbentong issue dahil alam po natin kung ano ang katotohanan dito.”

Leviste, however, stood by his call for further scrutiny and proposed a congressional inquiry into the matter. He suggested inviting witnesses, particularly from Batangas, to testify on the alleged connections between Recto and Gardiola to avoid conflicting claims.

“Ipatawag natin ang iba nating mga kapwa Batangueño at sila ang pwedeng tumestigo… para hindi na he said, she said at maglabas na ng mga resibo.”

During the exchange, Leviste raised questions about reported spending linked to political campaigns in Lipa City during the 2025 elections, citing information he said was relayed to him by local sources.

“Hindi ko po alam ang totoong nangyari. pinaparating ko lang ang sinabi sa akin at medyo mataas ang figure na natanggap ko. Baka naman 300, 400, 500 million pesos lang ang ginastos sa eleksyon ng Lipa.”

He acknowledged uncertainty over the exact figures but questioned what he described as significant expenditures allegedly made in support of certain candidates.

Leviste said a formal hearing would allow lawmakers to examine evidence and clarify the issue, instead of relying on competing statements on the plenary floor.

“Don't take it from me, magpatawag tayo ng pagdinig at lahat ng mga Batangueño ay pwedeng sumagot sa mga testigong ito.”