The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) announced it will look into allegations made by 18 individuals claiming to be former Philippine Marines, who claimed that part of the flood control scandal funds was diverted to International Criminal Court (ICC) investigators during the confirmation of charges hearing of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag clarified that the investigation will focus on verifying the timing and substance of the claims, not discrediting the statements of the ex-Marines or the camp of lawyer Levi Baligod.

“We will follow the truth and evidence. If it is proven that the affidavits are false, the individuals involved can be held accountable under the law,” Matibag said.

According to Baligod, the ex-Marines claimed that two suitcases containing ₱56 million were allegedly intended for foreign ICC officials tasked with investigating Duterte’s war on drugs. The ex-Marines also implicated former AKO Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co as the person who ordered the fund transfer.

The NBI emphasized that the probe will carefully examine these allegations, including the timing of the ex-Marines’ public disclosure, which coincided with Duterte’s ICC confirmation of charges hearing.

The investigation forms part of the NBI’s mandate to verify claims that could affect both local and international accountability processes, while ensuring that any false declarations are addressed according to the Philippine law.

This development adds a new dimension to the ongoing scrutiny of both the flood control fund controversy and past allegations surrounding the Duterte administration’s policies.