Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima have strongly denied allegations of receiving kickbacks from former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co. They labeled these claims as lies aimed at discrediting them as they prepare for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Luistro, the lead public prosecutor, stated that the accusations would not hinder their preparations, while de Lima confirmed that she has filed libel and perjury complaints against the accusers. Both lawmakers described the allegations as an attempt to undermine their credibility. Other members of the prosecution team, including Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, echoed their sentiments, asserting that the accusations were politically motivated and intended to distract from their constitutional responsibilities. The claims originated from 18 former Marine officers, which have been dismissed as false by various lawmakers, including Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, who stated that no money was ever delivered to him.