Lawyer Levito Baligod clarified that Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan was never accused by the so-called “Maleta Boys” of receiving money-filled suitcases or kickbacks linked to the alleged flood control controversy.
Speaking on Bilyonaryo News Channel’s “The Spokes,” Baligod said photographs of Pangilinan shown during a media briefing by alleged former bodyguards of former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co had been misinterpreted.
“Prinesent ’yung picture niya doon pero walang sinabi ang mga kwan. If you review the video coverage, walang sinabi ang mga sundalo,” Baligod said.
According to Baligod, the photographs merely showed Pangilinan and his wife, actress Sharon Cuneta, allegedly using helicopters and other aviation assets owned by Co during the 2025 election campaign.
He stressed that the images were presented as documentation of the alleged use of those assets and not as evidence that Pangilinan received money or participated in any unlawful activity.
“Walang sinabi ‘yung mga dating sundalo na tumanggap siya ng pera. It’s just a picture of employees of Misibis Aviation,” Baligod said.
Baligod also rejected suggestions that the witnesses had changed their statements regarding Pangilinan, maintaining that no accusation had been made against the senator from the start.
“Wala kaming sinabi,” he said.
The clarification came after Pangilinan denied any connection to the controversy and announced plans to pursue legal action against those behind the allegations.
Cuneta also defended her family on social media, saying their properties and assets were acquired through legitimate means and years of hard work.
The alleged flood control controversy emerged from claims made by a group of former military personnel linking several public figures to purported irregularities involving flood control projects. Several personalities named or referenced in presentations related to the controversy have denied any wrongdoing.
