Col. Raymund Dante Lachica of the Philippine Army strongly denied claims made against him in the affidavit of Ramil Lagonoy Madriaga, the self-proclaimed former “bagman” of Vice President Sara Duterte.
“I categorically state that I do not know Mr. Madriaga and have no personal or professional dealings with him at any time. Any assertion suggesting that I was associated with, recommended by, or worked with him is false and devoid of factual basis,” Lachica said.
He emphasized that the assignment of AFP officials, particularly in units protecting national officials, follows strict protocols and cannot be influenced by private individuals.
As a career officer, Lachica underscored his commitment to obeying the law, AFP protocols, and core values. He also urged that his name should not be used in unverified stories.
The denial comes after Madriaga’s affidavit claimed he created the group Inday Sara Duterte Is My President (ISIP) in 2020 under the instructions of then-Davao City Mayor, now VP Sara Duterte, and that its funding came from POGO operators and drug dealers.
Madriaga also alleged that after VP Sara’s victory, he was tasked to form the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG), where he supposedly recommended Col. Dennis Nolasco, who allegedly recruited Lachica. Madriaga further claimed he worked with Nolasco and Lachica from July 2022 to April 2023, transporting large sums of money on orders from the Vice President.
Col. Lachica described the allegations as “walang batayan” and called on the public and media to rely on verified information and official AFP statements.
“I remain ready to provide clarification to any competent authority as required,” he added.