A group of 18 individuals claiming to be former Marines have gone into hiding due to security threats following their exposé on alleged cash deliveries to government officials, but their representatives say they remain willing to face investigations. The United People’s Initiative (UPI), which supports them, confirmed that all members received threats after coming forward with their testimony.

MANILA — The United People’s Initiative (UPI) announced on Friday, March 6, 2026, that the 18 alleged ex-Marines who revealed details of supposed illicit cash transactions are now avoiding public appearances because of security concerns. Retired Captain Rey Valeros Jr., UPI’s secretary-general, explained, “Dahil sa security threat kailangan nilang hindi maging visible lagi. ‘Yung word na ‘nagtatago’, yes nagtatago sila dahil may threat,” confirming that the men are in hiding.

The group previously claimed they had acted as bagmen for fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co, delivering billions of pesos in cash to personalities and officials. In a sworn affidavit submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman, they described escorting assistants who carried suitcases and paper bags filled with money, sometimes amounting to P50 million to P70 million per delivery.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año has since filed criminal complaints against former congressman Mike Defensor, lawyer Levito Baligod, and the 18 alleged ex-Marines. The charges include unlawful publication and utterances under the Revised Penal Code, in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Despite the threats, UPI emphasized that the men are prepared to cooperate with official investigations. Valeros noted that while they are taking precautions for their safety, they are not evading accountability. “They are willing to face any probe, but their security must be guaranteed,” he said.

The revelations have triggered calls for Senate and Ombudsman inquiries into the alleged cash scheme, which whistleblowers claim involved massive sums linked to government projects. Lawmakers and advocacy groups have urged authorities to ensure the safety of the witnesses, stressing that their testimony could be crucial in uncovering systemic corruption.

As the controversy unfolds, the case underscores the risks faced by whistleblowers in the Philippines and the importance of providing them with protection. The willingness of the ex-Marines to testify, despite threats, may prove pivotal in advancing accountability and transparency in government dealings.

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