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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Ex-VP security chief denies ties to VP Sara's alleged bagman

Ex-VP security chief denies ties to VP Sara's alleged bagman

Published Dec 13, 2025 09:21 am
Philippine Army Colonel Raymund Lachica (File photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines Security and Protection Group)
Philippine Army Colonel Raymund Lachica (File photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines Security and Protection Group)
Philippine Army (PA) Colonel Raymund Dante P. Lachica, former head of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG), has denied any connection to Ramil Madriaga, who surfaced recently and claimed to be a former aide and alleged bagman of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Lachica, in a statement sent to reporters, said he does not know Madriaga and “has no personal or professional dealings with him at any time.”
“I categorically state that I do not know Mr. Madriaga,” Lachica said. He dismissed claims that he was associated with, recommended by, or worked with Madriaga in any capacity.
He also stressed that allegations linking him to supposed cash hand-offs have no factual basis.
Reports earlier claimed that Madriaga has executed a sworn affidavit alleging that he delivered cash on Duterte’s orders and that Lachica was involved in handing him duffle bags of money for distribution.
Madriaga, according to reports, has claimed that drug dealers and Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) funded VP Sara’s 2022 campaign through the Inday Sara Duterte Is My President (ISIP) movement.
Madriaga also reportedly recommended Col. Dennis Nolasco to head the Presidential Security Group (PSG), who later allegedly appointed Lachica to lead the VPSPG. Madriaga reportedly worked under both officers from July 2022 to April 2023.
But Lachica rejected the allegations and pointed out that assignments within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly to security units assigned to national officials, are governed by strict procedures, formal vetting, and command authority.
“These processes cannot be influenced by private individuals,” he stressed.
As a career officer of the Army, Lachica said he has consistently carried out his duties in line with lawful orders, established protocols, and the core values of the AFP.
He added that he takes exception to the use of his name in narratives that lack verification or institutional grounding.
He called on the public and the media to rely on verified information and official AFP sources, and said he is prepared to provide clarification to any competent authority if required.
As of this writing, the Office of the Vice President has yet to respond to Madriaga's allegations.
Lachica was sacked from his post as head of the VPSPG, now the AFP Security and Protection Group (AFPSPG), and reassigned to the PA effective Oct. 4.
Read: AFP axes VIP security chief over link to OVP confidential fund controversy

Related Tags

Philippine Army Raymund Lachica Vice President Sara Duterte bagman Ramil Madrigal
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