A fresh wave of political shock rippled across the Philippines after fugitive billionaire politician Zaldico released new allegations—this time dragging Senate President Chiz Escudero into the unfolding budget manipulation scandal. But as analysts warn, what Zaldico presents may be “half-truths,” carefully curated to shape an escape narrative rather than reveal the full picture.
While supporters of the former congressman hail the revelations as “proof” of high-level corruption, critics argue that Zaldico, now believed to be hiding in Europe, is twisting facts to shield himself and redirect public outrage toward the country’s top political figures.
Zaldico’s Strategy: Half-Truths, Half-Lies?
Observers have repeatedly emphasized that Zaldico’s statements follow a familiar pattern: mixture of verifiable facts blended with misleading details. According to his critics, he has been using President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM) as a “shield,” attempting to drag the administration into the scandal to gain leverage and sympathy.
Political analysts believe Zaldico is using selective disclosure as an escape strategy:
If he implicates only Chiz Escudero and Speaker Romualdez, he stands alone.
But if he drags the President in, the issue becomes systemic—big enough to destabilize government structures and create confusion, potentially giving him time and room to maneuver.
This strategy, according to many, is the core reason he continues releasing “exposés” online rather than returning to the Philippines to testify under oath.
The Claim: Did Escudero Withhold ₱200 Billion?
The most recent allegation centers on a confidential letter Zaldico posted online. According to him, the letter was supposedly written by former Bicol party-list representative Elizald Co, detailing alleged budget manipulation during the crafting of the 2025 National Budget in December 2024.
The letter accuses Senate President Chiz Escudero of:
Withholding the passage of the 2025 budget,
Demanding a ₱200-billion insertion,
Threatening a budget delay until March 2025,
Which would have led to a reenacted budget, derailing national programs.
Zaldico claims Escudero insisted that ₱150 billion be placed in program funds—primarily for DPWH allocations—and another ₱50 billion in unprogrammed appropriations.
The letter states:
“For the 2025 budget, none of our Senate counterparts added to Your Excellency’s food and health legacy campaign promises… SP Chiz wanted a ₱200-billion allocation… If not granted, he threatened to delay budget deliberations until March 2025.”
However, critics argue the ease with which such a document can be fabricated—especially given how Zaldico posted it only on social media, not through formal legal channels. Without an affidavit, the authenticity of the letter remains in question.
Calls for Zaldico to Testify Under Oath
A growing number of lawmakers and political observers insist that Zaldico’s statements are worthless unless delivered under oath before the Senate or the courts.
The public remembers the case of whistleblower Orle Goteza, who initially made detailed accusations but struggled under repeated questioning—revealing inconsistencies that eventually undermined his claims.
Analysts argue the same could happen to Zaldico:
A sworn affidavit requires legal accountability.
A live hearing subjects the witness to cross-examination.
Repeated questioning reveals whether a witness is lying or telling the truth.
“If Zaldico speaks under oath, that is when the real truth emerges,” one analyst said. “But releasing videos on social media means nothing.”
Is Escudero Involved? The Possibility of ‘Half-Truths’
Although many doubt Zaldico’s motives, some analysts concede that certain details might be grounded in real conflict within budget negotiations. As Senate President at the time, Escudero did hold significant influence over appropriations.
It is possible that:
There were disagreements in budget allocations,
There were internal delays,
Certain departments requested large insertions,
Tensions existed between Senate and House negotiations.
However, Zaldico’s narrative strategically frames himself as the “hero”, the one who “warned” government officials about imbalances in the DPWH budget—a portrayal critics find suspiciously self-serving.
For example, his claim that:
“I repeatedly warned Senate President Escudero about the excessively large DPWH allocation.”
Critics argue this is a classic tactic to appear innocent while shifting blame to others.
A Larger Strategy? Dragging Down the President
Political commentators warn that Zaldico’s larger goal may be to entangle PBBM in the controversy. They argue:
If the President is perceived as complicit,
The government destabilizes,
Support shifts to Vice President Sara Duterte,
And with a potential “power reset,”
Zaldico might gain political cover to protect his wealth and avoid prosecution.
“He wants chaos because chaos protects him,” one analyst said.
“He wants the fall of the administration because it disrupts every case filed against him.”
Why Zaldico Must Return to the Philippines
For many in the public, the bottom line remains clear:
If Zaldico is telling the truth, he must return to testify.
If he refuses, his claims remain political theater.
And if an Interpol Red Notice is issued, his capture becomes inevitable.
Authorities already believe he is hiding in Portugal, and international coordination may soon begin.
His critics emphasize:
“If you are innocent, you return. If you do not return, you are hiding. And if you hide, you fear the truth.”
Where Does Chiz Escudero Stand?
As of now, Senator Chiz Escudero has not issued a detailed public response to the claims. Analysts expect a strong rebuttal soon, especially given the gravity of the allegations.
Whether the claims are grounded in fact, manipulated for political gain, or entirely fabricated—one thing is clear:
The budget controversy is far from over.
Conclusion
Zaldico’s accusations have thrown gasoline into an already volatile political atmosphere. But without sworn testimony, court documents, or independent confirmation, his claims remain suspended between truth and deception.
Some may contain real information.
Some may be distorted.
Some may be outright lies.
But until Zaldico returns to face the law, the public will never know.
For now, the nation watches and waits:
Is this the beginning of a major political collapse—or just another carefully crafted escape plan by a billionaire on the run?
