‘Maleta boys’ to testify vs Romualdez in plunder bail hearing

MANILA, Philippines — Two former bodyguards of ex-Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, known as the “maleta boys,” are set to testify on Monday in the bail hearing of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who is facing a plunder case over alleged kickbacks worth P7.44 billion.

George Villalon Jr. and Johnny Buduan will take the witness stand, their lawyer Levito Baligod told reporters on the sidelines of the hearing at the Sandiganbayan Third Division.

Villalon and Buduan were among Co’s former bodyguards who allegedly helped deliver kickbacks to Romualdez, according to allegations in the plunder case.

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READ: Sandiganbayan told: 136 witnesses fo far in Romualdez plunder case

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Romualdez denied any wrongdoing as he cited the recantations of other former bodyguards of Co in his bail petition.

Baligod said other members of “Maleta boys” will testify in upcoming bail hearing of Romualdez on Tuesday and Thursday.

Romualdez attends the first day of his bail hearing via video conferencing. /dp

READ: Romualdez cites recantations as defense in plunder bail petition