Veteran broadcaster Arnold Clavio has strongly denied allegations made by a former aide of former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co, who claimed the journalist received paper bags filled with cash.
The allegations were made during a Tuesday press conference organized by former Anakalusugan Party-list Representative Mike Defensor. The event featured individuals identifying themselves as former security personnel and bagmen for Co.
During the briefing, one witness claimed he saw money being distributed to media personalities while he was working under a public relations intermediary.
“Na-assign po ako sa isang PR na taga-media na si Bernard Peralta. Doon ko po nakita yung mga nabibigyan po ng mga paperbag, na mga anchor na taga-media, kagaya po ni Arnold Clavio,” the witness alleged.
The witness did not provide specific details regarding the alleged transactions during the press conference, stating that he would save further information for his formal affidavit.
“At doon lang po muna, sa affidavit ko na lang po yung ibang kuwan… sampol lang ho ‘yon, marami pa ho akong mga nakilala,” he added.
Clavio, a prominent anchor for GMA Network, immediately dismissed the claims and pointed out the total lack of supporting evidence.
“Lies. Nakakatawa. Nakakalungkot. Pero lahat ng ito ay haharapin ko nang walang takot. Talk is cheap. Bago ang dada, ebidensya muna. Hindi ako natatakot. Wala akong itinatago,” Clavio said in a public statement.
The broadcaster also expressed his intention to take legal action against the accuser.
“Magkita na lang kami sa korte at doon ulitin niya lahat ng kanyang walang kakwenta-kwentang bintang,” Clavio stated.
Meanwhile, GMA Network released a statement on Tuesday confirming that it is aware of the allegations and has initiated an internal review. The media company emphasized its commitment to professional ethics.
“GMA Network has noted the statements made during a press conference earlier today. The Network takes matters involving the integrity of our journalists seriously. The Network will evaluate the matter further,” the network stated.
The organization also called on the public to remain cautious about the unsubstantiated claims.
“GMA Network remains committed to responsible journalism. We ask the public to refrain from drawing conclusions based on unverified information,” the statement concluded.