MANILA, Philippines — Rep. Leila de Lima took to social media on Monday to poke fun at recent allegations linking her to a “maleta” (suitcase) full of cash, posting a satirical video that has quickly gone viral.
In a one-minute clip uploaded to her official Facebook page, the Mamamayang Liberal party-list representative is seen clutching both a suitcase and a paper bag—the two items mentioned in conflicting reports by her accusers.
- The “Reveal”: Mocking the idea of secret kickbacks, De Lima opens the suitcase to show it contains only legislative documents, including the “Resolution of Endorsement” for the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
- Paper Bag Contents: As for the paper bag, she “reveals” it holds her tablet, a notebook, and copies of the 1987 Constitution and the Rules of the House.
- Engagement: Within hours, the video garnered over 38,000 reactions and thousands of comments, with many supporters praising her humorous approach to the legal drama.
The video is a direct response to claims made by lawyer Levito Baligod and 18 former Marines who alleged they acted as “bagmen” for massive kickbacks.
- The Flip-Flop: Accusers initially claimed De Lima received wads of cash in a suitcase. However, Baligod later admitted an error in the detail, claiming the money was actually delivered in a paper bag.
- Wider Scandal: These allegations are part of a larger, controversial claim that ₱805 billion in kickbacks from resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co were delivered to various officials, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., using pieces of luggage.
- Ombudsman Filing: An affidavit detailing these claims was formally submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman last week.
While she used humor in the video, De Lima has remained serious in her formal denials, calling the allegations “baseless” and “patently absurd.” She has also indicated that she is considering legal action for libel and slander against those behind the claims.