Ex-VP security chief questions ‘inconsistent’ Madriaga testimony

National

A MILITARY officer who previously led the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) has raised concerns over the credibility of Ramil Madriaga, the kidnapping suspect who recently appeared before the House of Representatives in connection with impeachment complaints against Sara Duterte.

Col. Raymund Dante Lachica, who was named by Madriaga as one of those allegedly involved in delivering bags of cash amounting to P125 million in December 2022, questioned the consistency of the latter’s statements across multiple submissions, a report by Inquirer.net said.

These include Madriaga’s affidavit filed with the Ombudsman in December 2025, his supplemental affidavit presented during the April 14 House committee on justice hearing, and his recent testimony.

“This is no longer about allegations—this is about consistency. And the inconsistencies are glaring,” Lachica said, pointing out discrepancies involving “timelines,” “roles and identities,” and “handling of funds.” He added, “These are not minor discrepancies but direct contradictions that undermine reliability of the testimony.”

Despite his statements, Lachica did not cite specific details disputing Madriaga’s account of the alleged cash deliveries. He also referenced a cyberlibel complaint he filed against Madriaga in January at the Davao office of the Department of Justice.

Lachica was replaced as head of the VPSPG last year following a reorganization ordered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and is currently assigned to an Army holding unit, according to Louie Dema-ala.

Madriaga, who is currently detained and undergoing trial for kidnapping, was permitted by a Manila court to testify before lawmakers. In his affidavit, he claimed he acted as a “bagman” for the Vice President, alleging involvement in the transfer of confidential funds.

He further stated that his duties included security and intelligence work with the VPSPG and named another officer, Dennis Nolasco, as part of the group that coordinated the alleged cash deliveries on December 20, 2022.

Recalling one instance, Madriaga said: “Before leaving the DepEd (Department of Education) Central Office, Col. Nolasco told me to get my share from the said bags (of cash) as he and Col. Lachica have already taken theirs. Hence, I took P1 million for myself from the lighter-colored bag loaded to the red Mazda sedan.” (Samantha Faye Alcoma, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)