Marawi civic leader Samira Gutoc. Photo by Otso Diretso
MANILA, Philippines — Samira Gutoc of the Otso Diretso slate has denied the allegations of Peter Advincula, the man claiming to be “Bikoy” in the “Ang Totoong Narcolist” videos that earlier linked some members of the Duterte family to a drug syndicate.
READ: ‘Bikoy’ says claims in videos are lies, tags LP, Trillanes
In a statement Thursday, Gutoc categorically denied that she knew Advincula and met or talked to him. She said the allegations against Otso Diretso candidates and the Liberal Party (LP) were mere “political harassment.”
“I have met thousands of people during the campaign, but I have and will never meet somebody on such matters or under the circumstances Bikoy was referring to,” the Marawi civic leader said.
“But in every dark place, the light and the truth will always prevail,” she stressed.
On Thursday, Advincula, appearing under the custody of the Philippine National Police, suddenly retracted his claims against the Dutertes and President Rodrigo Duterte’s longtime aide and Senator-elect Bong Go.
He alleged that the LP, including Senator Risa Hontiveros, Senator Leila de Lima, and opposition-allied incumbent Senator Antonio Trillanes IV directed his actions. All of these, he claimed, were aimed at ousting Duterte and installing Vice President Leni Robredo as President.
READ: Alejano refutes Bikoy: Otso Diretso never met you
Advincula also claimed he had a meeting with Otso Diretso candidates, except for Mar Roxas. Other members of the slate, Romy Macalintal and Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano also denied this.
READ: ‘Bikoy’: Entire ‘Ang Totoong Narcolist’ was not true, LP was mastermind | Project Sodoma: ‘Bikoy’ says opposition wanted Duterte ousted
Advincula also said he surfaced because he fears for his life after the whole Otso Diretso senatorial slate lost in the May 13 midterm elections. (Editor: Jonathan P. Vicente)
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