The claims of Attorney Levito “Levi” Baligod on Tuesday that he holds substantial evidence exposing corruption involving 18 Marines, said to be former comrades of surprise witness Master Sgt. Orly Regala Guteza, prompted the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to respond.

In a statement sent to Daily Tribune, the AFP said Baligod's claims "must be evaluated" and cautioned its personnel, whether active or retired, against spreading unverified claims.

"The AFP notes the recent public statements made by a private lawyer during a press conference allegedly involving individuals described as members of the Philippine Marine Corps. At present, these statements consist of allegations aired in a public forum and must be evaluated through proper legal and investigative processes before competent authorities," the AFP statement read.

"We caution against grandstanding and the manipulative use of legitimate media to spread unverified claims that may contribute to disinformation. The Filipino people deserve facts, and we urge all parties to allow lawful processes to take their course," the Armed Forces added.

Baligod, a former 2016 senatorial candidate, presented documents that he said contained affidavits of the Marines recounting operations involving the delivery of suitcases of money to various undisclosed politicians, naming four of the soldiers as belonging to the Philippine Navy (PN), which immediately denied the claim.

"The Philippine Navy is aware of the circulating video of individuals who were presented by Atty. Baligod during a press conference who claim to be former members of the Philippine Marine Corps. The Philippine Navy exercised due diligence to verify the identities and service records of these individuals," PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez said.

"Based on official records, four were never members of the Philippine Navy or the Philippine Marine Corps (a unit under the Navy). The majority of the individuals were discharged dishonorably from the service, while others were able to retire in good standing," Martinez said.

"We remind the public to be discerning and to verify the accuracy and credibility of information, including the source and platform used, in order to help prevent and counter misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation, which have become increasingly prevalent," Martinez cautioned.

Martinez added that Guteza has been retired from the service "since June 2020 and is no longer under the administrative authority of the Philippine Navy."

"The Philippine Navy respects and adheres to constitutional processes, including judicial and legislative inquiries. The Navy does not and will never prevent any individual from testifying the truth, as doing so would go against our core values and principles. The Navy remains a professional, disciplined, and non-partisan organization. We will never compromise our values, integrity, and reputation. We remain steadfast in our mandate to defend the country’s sovereignty and serve the Filipino people," Martinez pointed out.