SENATOR Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, Senate President Pro Tempore, has publicly questioned the reliability of Mary Ann Maslog, a witness testifying during a Senate hearing on alleged illegal activities of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in Pampanga and Tarlac. Estrada, citing past incidents involving Maslog, claims she is an unreliable witness and has a history of dishonesty.
Estrada’s accusations against Maslog stem from her alleged involvement in a textbook scam during his father’s presidency.
He further alleges that Maslog attempted to bribe officials in Malacañang in 1999 and avoided a graft conviction by falsely reporting her death and obtaining a new birth certificate under a different name.
Estrada also expressed skepticism regarding Maslog’s claim of mediating the return of former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo.
He points out that Maslog is a private citizen with no government authority to engage in such mediation.
Estrada questioned Maslog’s connection to General Romeo Macapas, claiming that while Maslog visited Guo twice in Camp Crame with Macapas’ help, it is unclear if Macapas has the authority to grant her such power.
Estrada also alleged that Maslog assisted Guo in escaping to Indonesia.
Estrada’s statements have raised concerns about the credibility of Maslog’s testimony and have prompted calls for further investigation into her relationship with Guo.
The Senate hearing continues to investigate the alleged illegal activities of POGO operators, and the validity of Maslog’s testimony will be crucial to the investigation’s outcome.
