Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has pushed back against allegations made by Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, denying the claims and raising counter-allegations that further intensified their public dispute.
In a strongly worded statement, Recto accused Leviste of spreading false information and said the accusations against him were baseless.
“But you can only fight a natural born liar with truth,” Recto said, adding that there are limits to his restraint amid what he described as continued attacks.
Recto also alleged that Leviste had previously attempted to influence political outcomes using large sums of money, claims that have not been independently verified.
According to Recto, these alleged offers were rejected, and he maintained that he had no involvement in any wrongdoing related to the issues raised against him.
He further denied any improper links to business or government projects, saying all his work as a public official has been transparent and properly documented.
“Wala akong ghost projects… lahat ng proyekto ko… ay may resibo at dama ng tao,” Recto said.
The Executive Secretary also dismissed allegations linking him to political allies, stressing that his record in Batangas reflects years of public service and infrastructure development.
The exchange between Recto and Leviste marks a deepening political rift, with both sides making serious accusations and calling for accountability.
Leviste has earlier challenged Recto to face Congress to settle the issue publicly, a call that has yet to receive a direct response.
The dispute is expected to fuel further political tensions, with possible calls for formal investigations to determine the validity of the competing claims.
