The political landscape of the Philippines has been dramatically reshaped by a series of explosive revelations, centering on alleged systemic corruption within the government’s crucial flood control infrastructure projects. What began as a startling testimony from a decorated former military officer has now been emphatically validated by an unexpected source: former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative, Saldico. His confirmation, delivered in a recent public disclosure, has not only intensified the scandal but has also put the nation’s highest officials and anti-graft institutions directly under the spotlight.

Saldico’s statement comes as a powerful corroboration of the claims made by former Master Sergeant Orle Gotesa, specifically concerning the alleged transfer of significant amounts of cash to the residences of highly influential political figures. The gravity of this confirmation is immense, as it directly ties the alleged irregularities—including a purported P100 billion budget insertion and kickback scheme—to the offices of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

The Claims: Cash Deliveries and Internal Records
In his second video exposition, Saldico left no room for ambiguity. He declared that Gotesa’s narrative was not “fiction,” but rather grounded in reality, asserting that his own team possessed internal records and had personnel who witnessed the alleged deliveries of funds. These cash transfers were reportedly made to prominent locations, including a private residence in North Forbes Park, South Forbes Park, and even Malacañang Palace.

This level of detail moves the conversation beyond mere political bickering. It suggests a structured operation of alleged financial misconduct. The public outcry has naturally intensified, with calls for a thorough, transparent, and absolutely impartial examination of these claims. The focus is now on documenting and validating the intricate web of alleged cash transfers said to have occurred between high-ranking government officials.

The Direct Challenge to the Anti-Graft Office
Perhaps the most dramatic turn in this unfolding saga is Saldico’s direct and fiery challenge to Ombudsman Boying Remulla. Saldico did not mince words, urging the Ombudsman to expand the scope of his investigation beyond the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other smaller agencies. He insisted that if the anti-graft office is truly serious about a comprehensive probe, it must include the two most powerful figures allegedly involved: President Marcos Jr. and former Speaker Romualdez.

Saldico highlighted Remulla’s own past statement, where the Ombudsman reportedly promised to include anyone for whom evidence was presented. “Now is the time,” Saldico essentially declared, “to stand by that commitment.” He then presented documents and accounts that he claims prove the involvement of the two officials in a multi-billion-peso budget insertion—a significant move that transforms the political atmosphere from one of passive speculation to active legal confrontation.

The documents presented allegedly detail the financial structure of the scheme. Saldico claims that during the budget discussions for the General Appropriations Act of 2025, he inquired about the necessary amount to be remitted to the Office of the President (OP). He alleges the figure quoted was 25% of the total insertion—meaning 25% of the purported P100 billion, or P25 billion, was allegedly directed to the President’s office. Saldico asserts that his security personnel and associates, whom he named, were responsible for making these deliveries.

He also stressed that Gotesa’s original testimony regarding deliveries to Malacañang while he was assigned to the Senate was accurate, further cementing the credibility of the primary witness. He promised to release photographic evidence of the alleged deliveries following the final approval of the national budget.

Public Sentiment and Skepticism
The public reaction has been swift and deeply polarized. Social media channels are flooded with comments demanding accountability, questioning the integrity of current institutions, and urging the Ombudsman to act decisively. Many citizens feel that these revelations confirm long-held suspicions about alleged financial impropriety at the top levels of power.

Amid the outrage, there are also complex political undercurrents. Some observers note that the nature of the revelations—coming from an individual who admits to being an accomplice—presents a difficult reality. It highlights that often, the most damaging information about systemic irregularities comes from those who were once part of the network themselves.

Interestingly, political figures traditionally viewed as “anti-administration” have reacted with a cautious, almost critical tone towards Saldico. Senator Leila de Lima and former Solicitor General Chel Diokno, for instance, urged Saldico to return to the country, take an oath, and present all his evidence before the proper legal forum. While a necessary legal step, this measured response has been interpreted by some as reluctance to embrace the full weight of the allegations simply because the individuals exposed belong to a different political faction. This has led to accusations that their “anti-corruption” stance may be selective.

Deflection and the Threat of Instability
The fallout has also triggered strong defensive narratives from administration allies and certain media personalities. A common defense tactic appears to be an attempt at deflection, often by raising the specter of instability or questioning the motives of the exposer.

For instance, certain paid commentators have attempted to divert attention by focusing on the possibility of a political succession crisis. They suggest that if the current leadership were to face removal, the constitutional successor, Vice President Sara Duterte, might be unacceptable to “various sectors.” These commentators have been criticized for raising the prospect of military intervention or a caretaker government led by private sector figures—an alarming proposition that outright violates constitutional succession laws—all seemingly in an effort to frighten the public into retaining the current government to avoid perceived “worse” alternatives.

The former representative’s brave or calculated move—depending on one’s perspective—has undeniably set the stage for a critical confrontation. The burden now lies squarely with the Ombudsman and other investigative bodies. The public is not only demanding an investigation into the alleged P100 billion budget insertion and the associated cash transfers but also a firm demonstration that no official, regardless of their rank or influence, is above the law. The credibility of the anti-graft campaign and the integrity of the government’s financial management hang in the balance.