National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag revealed that as many as 100 more alleged former soldiers may come forward next week in connection with the ₱805-billion cash delivery scheme, alongside the 18 ex-Marines who earlier claimed to be bagmen of former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co.
“May bago pang isasama na Marines because there were reports na mas marami pa pala ‘yung kausap niyan eh, or kinausap eh… mga 100 daw ‘yan eh. Pero hindi lahat pumayag,” Matibag said.
He added that the investigation could reach higher levels, possibly involving retired generals.
“Tungkol don kung political, may reports kami sa amin eh, nagtutugma na ‘yun ‘yung unang lalabas, tapos eventually may mga retired generals na lalabas. And you and I know, may mga lumalabas na ngang retired general kahapon. So we will follow all these leads,” he explained.
According to the NBI, around 30 personalities have been subpoenaed. If they fail to appear, they may be reported to the Office of the Ombudsman, which has the authority to cite them in contempt under deputation to the NBI.
Matibag stressed that the inquiry is evidence-based and vowed to summon personalities linked to the 18 ex-Marines to clarify their testimonies.