THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is set to summon Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste and former presidential adviser Jacinto Paras in connection with an alleged scheme to frame Executive Secretary Ralph Recto in a fabricated sex scandal.
The probe stems from a recent anti‑trafficking operation where authorities arrested a talent manager and rescued four women at a high‑end hotel in Manila. One of the rescued women came forward to detail an elaborate plot designed to destroy Recto’s reputation, with investigators describing the incident as part of a broader “destabilization plot” against key government officials.
According to NBI Director Melvin Matibag, the plan was orchestrated to falsely claim that Recto hired sex workers, supplied them with drugs such as cocaine, and engaged in illicit activities.
The operation was scheduled to take place shortly after this year’s State of the Nation Address, with the intention of releasing damaging statements and affidavits prepared in advance by three lawyers. The woman who revealed the plot confirmed she had never met Recto and that all the accusations were manufactured. Matibag added that had the plot succeeded, the group intended to target other Cabinet members and senators next.
Investigators established that Paras allegedly acted as the go‑between, directly coordinating with the talent manager and the women, while Leviste was said to be the financier who promised ₱1 million each to those involved.
The NBI recovered evidence of communications between Paras and the talent manager, though authorities noted that Paras had already deleted the messages. Leviste has denied any involvement, stating he had nothing to do with Recto’s personal life and suggesting that Recto should be asked if he knew the individuals involved. Paras also issued a denial, saying he would address the allegations at the appropriate time.
The NBI emphasized that the case goes beyond a simple smear campaign and appears calculated to undermine public trust in the administration. Authorities are preparing subpoenas for both Leviste and Paras to clarify their roles, verify the alleged funding, and confirm the extent of their participation in planning the false accusations. The investigation continues to gather evidence and interview witnesses to establish accountability for the attempted character assassination.
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