MANILA, Philippines — Attorney Charlie Pascual has denied allegations that he is a fake lawyer, stressing that his involvement in the controversial affidavit of 18 alleged former Marines was purely procedural.
Pascual faced reporters after responding to a subpoena from the National Bureau of Investigation, which is looking into the authenticity and implications of the sworn statements.
To counter doubts about his credentials, the lawyer said he submitted records proving that he has been a commissioned notary public in Las Piñas City for more than ten years.
“I am a legitimate lawyer with a proper office,” he said, dismissing accusations that he is a bogus counsel.
‘I simply notarized the documents’
Pascual explained that the 18 individuals personally appeared at his office to have their affidavits notarized. He said he verified their identities and confirmed that their statements were made voluntarily before proceeding with the notarization.
“My responsibility was limited to performing my notarial function in accordance with the rules,” he said.
He stressed that he had nothing to do with the preparation or claims contained in the affidavits themselves.
The sworn statements reportedly allege that the supposed former Marines acted as intermediaries who delivered about ₱805 billion in alleged kickbacks from irregular flood-control projects to several government figures, including former Elizaldy Co of the Ako Bicol Partylist.
The NBI has summoned several personalities connected to the issue, including lawyer Levito Baligod and former legislator Mike Defensor, who are expected to attend the investigation hearing on March 12.
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