FL: No time for ‘theatrics’

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has said she would rather focus on teaching law students than engage in political theatrics.

Mrs. Marcos made her comment on social media after former lawmaker Zaldy Co accused her and her brother, Martin Araneta, of intervening in inquiries into rising agricultural prices in 2022 and 2024. 

Co, who is facing multiple graft complaints linked to alleged ghost flood control projects, claimed the First Lady influenced decisions affecting imports during those periods. He did not provide documentary evidence to support his allegations.

“While some may choose theatrics, I’d rather focus on teaching future lawyers how the law truly works — where truth is the standard and proof is the language we live by,” the First Lady wrote.

Mrs. Marcos, a law professor at several universities, has repeatedly avoided weighing in directly on the accusations but has signaled alignment with the administration’s stance, dismissing Co’s claims.

Presidential aides described Co’s allegations as “baseless” attempts to deflect from the investigations tied to the multibillion-peso infrastructure scandal.

The First Lady’s brother did not respond to requests for a comment.

The controversy adds another layer to the widening probe into alleged irregularities in importation permits and price manipulation during the agricultural supply crisis. 

Government documents show onion prices soared to as high as P700 per kilo in late 2022, fueling accusations of profiteering among traders and gaps in import oversight.

But Mrs. Marcos appeared unfazed by the developments, choosing instead to highlight her work in academia. 

She praised her students for their perseverance despite what she described as “storms, earthquakes and bogus bomb threats” that disrupted the semester in Iloilo City.

“When they showed up for class, they were prepared, curious and ready to dissect the latest jurisprudence,” she said. “Good luck on your final exams, and see you next sem!”

Investigators have not filed formal charges against the First Lady, and there is no evidence to link her to any importation decisions.