MANILA, Philippines — The former head of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) on Thursday raised concerns on the credibility of the alleged bagman of Vice President Sara Duterte before the House of Representatives, citing conflicting statements across multiple sworn declarations.
“This is no longer about allegations—this is about consistency. And the inconsistencies are glaring,” Army Col. Raymund Dante Lachica said in a statement to The Manila Times.
Lachica was referring to the testimony of Ramil Madriaga, the self-confessed former campaign aide of Duterte who later became her alleged bagman.
Lachica said that Madriaga has presented at least three versions of his claims- from his original affidavit, supplemental affidavit, and most recent testimony—covering key issues such as timelines, roles and identities and handling of funds.
"On material matters, there is no room for contradiction,” Lachica said
He added that these were not minor discrepancies but direct contradictions that undermined the reliability of the testimony.
The army officer has warned against equating repeated claims with factual accuracy.
“Repetition does not resolve inconsistencies—it amplifies them,” he said.
Lachica also reiterated that he filed a cyberlibel complaint against Madriaga in relation to the public dissemination of unverified allegations as fact.
He warned that, if proven false, such acts may constitute: “reckless disregard for truth.”
Lachica further stressed that he welcomed the opportunity to address the matter in the proper legal forum, emphasizing that evidence must be examined, records must be verified, credibility must be tested.
