The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that it will initiate a preliminary investigation following a court order that directed it to examine allegations of forgery in a sworn affidavit submitted by Senate witness Orly Guteza.
The case stems from an 11-page order by the Manila Regional Trial Court (Branch 18) on October 24, 2025, in which Executive Judge Carolina Icasiano‑Sison ruled that the signature of attorney Petchie Rose Espera on the affidavit was not genuine, finding that the signature on the document and the lawyer’s actual signature “were not written by one and the same person.”
The affidavit in question was presented during a Senate hearing by Guteza, who claimed to be a resource person for the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and alleged deliveries of large cash amounts to public officials. The court concluded that the document was falsified and referred the matter to the DOJ for further investigation and possible criminal charges.
Officials at the DOJ confirmed that they will proceed with a “preliminary investigation” to determine if there is sufficient evidence for prosecution. If so, the DOJ will file appropriate criminal charges against those responsible, including Guteza and any other persons involved in submitting the alleged forged document.
The case highlights concerns over the credibility of documents used in legislative and investigative processes, and the DOJ has emphasised its commitment to conduct an impartial probe. The outcome may have wider implications for the integrity of sworn testimony and notarial practices in high-profile cases.