Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Sunday warned lawyer Levito Baligod that he could face another case after the latter claimed on social media that Trillanes allegedly offered P10 million each to 18 individuals linked to the controversial “maleta” allegations.

In a Facebook post, Baligod questioned the supposed offer, writing: “Why did you have to offer P10 million to each member of the B18? Was it to conceal the truth?”

The post came after Trillanes expressed confidence that one of the 18 alleged former bodyguards of former Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co would eventually recant and admit that their claims about suitcases of cash supposedly linked to anomalous flood control projects were fabricated.

Baligod also uploaded a photo of a mobile phone displaying an alleged text message offering money in exchange for withdrawing a case and staying away from the media.

The message read in part: “Once everything is settled, you’ll get P5 million. Withdraw the case, then stay away from the media, just like Guteza did... You’ll get P5 million, my friend, and I’ll get P5 million too. Let’s help each other.”

It added: “Most importantly, your case will disappear. Just keep quiet. If you’re willing, let’s do it first. Once you’re sure, I’ll bring it to them.”

Charges galore

Baligod did not identify the alleged sender of the message or provide additional details regarding its authenticity.

Responding on social media, Trillanes issued a warning to Baligod.

“Mr. Baligod, take down that fake news or I will file another case against you. This is your final warning,” Trillanes said.

The exchange is the latest development in the escalating legal battle over allegations that Trillanes received suitcases filled with cash supposedly intended for investigators of the International Criminal Court.

On 23 March, Trillanes filed cyberlibel complaints before the Department of Justice against the 18 alleged former Marines who publicly claimed they had delivered the cash-filled suitcases to him.

The complaints also named SMNI hosts Byron “Banat By” Cristobal, Oliver “Coach Oli” Cristobal, Master Judea and Arjay Piodina for their alleged roles in spreading the accusations.

On 25 June, Trillanes filed another cyberlibel complaint against Sens. Alan Peter Cayetano and Rodante Marcoleta, along with the same 18 individuals.