Tulfo on 18 aides: ‘They are not heroes’

Senator Raffy Tulfo has questioned the credibility of the 18 former aides of former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, saying they are being portrayed as heroes despite admitting involvement in alleged kickback deliveries.

During a Blue Ribbon Committee consultative meeting, Tulfo said the label “18 marines” gives the public a misleading impression of the group’s background and credibility.

“Simulang simula pa lang na tinawag silang 18 marines, may panli-linlang na agad,” he said, noting that not all of them were former marines and that some had been discharged from service.

Tulfo also warned fellow senators against glorifying the group, saying their own statements raise serious questions.

“Tatawagin mo ang mga taong umamin naman na nag-deliver ng mga kickback sa kung sino-sinong poncio pilato. So therefore, matatawag silang sindikato. So kung tatawagin mong bayani ang isang sindikato, sindikato ka rin,” he said.

The senator likewise cast doubt on several claims made by the group, including alleged money-changing transactions in Makati and their account involving iPhone 16e units.IMT