Manila, August 1, 2024 — Congressman Rodante Marcoleta has exposed alleged offshore bank accounts belonging to Comelec Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia. These allegations, if true, raise serious questions about the integrity of the upcoming national elections and the transparency of the electoral process.
In a detailed press conference, Marcoleta explained that his verification team, with international volunteers’ assistance, confirmed these offshore accounts’ existence. A volunteer from New York deposited $100 into two accounts under the name George Erwin Mojica Garcia in the Cayman Islands, conclusively verifying their existence. This revelation comes after Garcia had consistently denied having any offshore accounts.
Marcoleta further detailed that Garcia had issued a waiver of bank deposits to the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Still, no reports have been forthcoming from these agencies. Due to the lack of response, Marcoleta and his team took it upon themselves to investigate. He noted that, following a press release on June 26 highlighting these allegations, the accounts were closed between June 28 and July 15, with transactions transferred to accounts with foreign-sounding names. This swift closure of accounts and transfer of funds heightened Marcoleta’s suspicions.
Chairman Garcia had previously dismissed the allegations as a “demolition job,” but Marcoleta argued that the closure of accounts suggests otherwise. He emphasized that without a basis for the claims, there would be no need for such drastic measures. The implications of these actions are serious, potentially undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
Marcoleta stressed the importance of investigating these allegations to ensure the integrity of the upcoming elections. He argued that the credibility of the electoral process is at stake and that a clean, orderly, and true conduct of elections is essential for the democratic rights of Filipinos. Instead of pursuing an impeachment process, which would be lengthy and potentially unresolved by the time of the elections, Marcoleta has filed a House Resolution to initiate a comprehensive and expedited investigation into these accounts.
He called for a swift and thorough investigation by the House of Representatives to verify Garcia’s claims and to determine if the Chairman should remain in his position to oversee the elections. Marcoleta highlighted that if these allegations are substantiated, it could have far-reaching consequences for the credibility of the Comelec and the upcoming national elections.
Marcoleta also addressed the procurement of the MIRU system, questioning its reliability and the potential impact on the elections. He suggested that existing ballot-counting machines could suffice and emphasized the need for transparency in the electoral process.
In conclusion, Marcoleta urged the public to stay vigilant and informed as the investigation unfolds. He reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, emphasizing that the integrity of the electoral process is paramount. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in maintaining public trust in the elections and ensuring that Filipinos can freely and fairly choose their leaders.
