The Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) has ruled that the signature on “surprise witness” Orly Guteza’s affidavit was not that of the lawyer listed as the notary, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson confirmed.

Despite this, Guteza’s sworn statement before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee remains valid.

“There are findings from the Manila RTC showing that the notary’s signature on his affidavit was not genuine,” Lacson said. Guteza had claimed that he delivered suitcases of cash to former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co and then Speaker Martin Romualdez — allegations both lawmakers have denied.

Lawyer Petchie Rose Espera, named as the notary public, has denied notarizing the document. The RTC recommended a preliminary investigation into a possible falsification of documents case.

Lacson said the Blue Ribbon Committee will continue to consider Guteza’s sworn testimony valid and will presume its truthfulness in its report. He also announced that the next hearing on anomalous flood control projects is set for 14 November, with Guteza to be subpoenaed.

Former representative Mike Defensor — who had introduced Guteza to Senator Rodante Marcoleta who called Guteza as a witness in the Blue Ribbon committee hearing into the flood control project anomalies — said Guteza’s core claim about his role in the delivery of cash was consistent and would be admissible as evidence, regardless of the notarization issue.