Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero has denied allegations linking him to supposed suitcases filled with cash, calling the claims “impossible” and dismissing them as part of a political smear campaign.
Escudero said it was unsurprising that he was named by the group referred to as the “18 maleta boys,” insisting the accusations surfaced shortly after he aligned himself with Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian’s bloc.
“I am not surprised, but I can bluntly say it is not true because Congressman Co and I have been enemies for a long time. That simply cannot happen,” Escudero said in his “Chiz Wiz” podcast aired Wednesday.
The senator also questioned the credibility of the allegations, saying the supposed cash deliveries were even directed to the wrong address.
“Aside from that, they got the wrong address,” he added.
Escudero said the timing of the accusations was politically motivated, noting that the claims emerged shortly after he shifted political alignment during the final session days before Congress adjourned sine die on June 3.
He said the allegations were expected amid current political tensions and would not affect his position or decisions.
“This is part of the political noise. It’s part of the mud being thrown by both sides. Will it change my position? I don’t think so,” he said.
Escudero also challenged his accusers to pursue formal legal action if they have evidence, instead of holding press conferences.
“If there is basis, file the proper complaint so it can be answered in court. Why just press conferences without accountability?” he said.
He added that unsubstantiated claims should not be given weight, stressing that he sees no reason to be affected by what he considers false allegations.