Yap denies delivering suitcases of money to Zaldy Co

Benguet Representative Eric Yap on Thursday denied allegations that he delivered money to Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co.

Yap was referring to the statement made by Orly Guteza during the Senate blue ribbon panel probe into flood control probe that the lawmaker delivered money stored in 46 suitcases to Co's residence in Taguig. 

“I categorically deny any involvement in the acts being alleged. I have never accepted, nor authorized, the delivery of money in connection with flood control projects. These claims are untrue,” said Yap, who served as the House appropriations panel chairperson during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Co, on the other hand, served as the House appropriations panel chairperson during the 19th Congress under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

“I was disheartened to hear my name mentioned in today’s Senate hearing on alleged irregularities in flood control projects. To be implicated in such matters is painful, not only for myself,  but also for the people I have pledged to serve with integrity,” Yap added.

Yap then vowed to clear his name at the proper time and forum, saying public office is a public trust.

“As a public servant, I am accountable to the people. That is why I welcome the chance to face the witness who implicated me, but in the proper forum and under proceedings where my constitutional rights are respected,” he said.

“My work has always been guided by service, not self-interest. I remain steadfast in that mission, and I am confident that, in the end, truth and justice will prevail and the real culprits who perpetrated these crimes are exposed,” he added. —AOL, GMA Integrated News