Lawmakers accused of receiving payouts in line with the controversial flood control projects have denied the allegations of men claiming to be former members of the Marines. 

The lawmakers were named during a Senate hearing on the flood control mess presided over by Senator Pia Cayetano on Thursday, June 4, 2026. 

Among those named from the regions were Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Sandro Marcos, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Adiong, Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin, Palawan 2nd Congressional District Rep. Jose Alvarez, and Laguna 1st District Rep. Dan Fernandez.

In a report on 24 Oras, Zia Adiong dismissed the allegations, calling them “political theater” and an attempt at “pamumulitika,” saying the list was a “desperate attempt” to create noise and silence calls for accountability.

He also said the allegations were meant as a distraction from the “important constitutional duty” of lawmakers, including the upcoming impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Meanwhile, Alvarez denied strongly that he received “maleta” money from embattled former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, saying he had no transactions linked to the claim.

“Tapos ibabangit pangalan ko, edi kawawa naman pamilya ko... I vehemently deny na meron po akong natanggap,” Alvarez said.

The other lawmakers named have yet to issue statements as of posting.

CHALLENGE

In a press briefing in Malacañang, Press Officer Claire Castro urged the accusers to present evidence to support their claims.

“Pakita muna nila ‘yung ebidensya. Madali kasing magturo, lalo na kung ang balak mo lang naman talaga ay manggiba at magsilbing isang obstructionist or destabilizer,” said Palace 

“So, dapat patunayan nila. Bigyan nila tayo ng dokumento at hindi ‘yung salita lamang,” she added.

This report will be updated once the lawmakers concerned release their comments.