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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Pleyto says rival's attempted murder charge against him a 'desperate political ploy'

Pleyto says rival's attempted murder charge against him a 'desperate political ploy'

Published Apr 4, 2025 06:46 pm

At A Glance

  • Reelectionist Bulacan 6th district Rep. Salvador Pleyto has described the filing of an attempted murder charge against him as nothing but a "desperate" attempt by his political rival to sully his name.

IMG_20250114_211222.jpgBulacan 6th district Rep. Salvador Pleyto (PPAB)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reelectionist Bulacan 6th district Rep. Salvador Pleyto has described the filing of an attempted murder charge against him as nothing but a "desperate" attempt by his political rival to sully his name.

"I strongly deny the baseless and malicious accusations made against me during a press conference held  earlier today by the lawyers of our political opponents—individuals who have openly declared their political ambition to unseat me," Pleyto said in a statement on Friday night, April 4.

Pleyto was apparently referring to claims made by the camp of Jad Racal that he had threatened the latter's life. Racal’s counsel have reportedly filed attempted murder raps against Pleyto and several individuals in connection with this.

"I am running unopposed in this election, so I have no reason—and no need—to resort to harassment, threats, or any form of intimidation. These tactics are inconsistent with my values and the way I have always conducted myself in public service," the lawmaker said.

"These accusations are clearly part of a desperate political ploy aimed at tarnishing my name and distracting the public from my record of service and the work I continue to deliver for our constituents," added Pleyto, a member of the House majority bloc.

The Bulacan solon--eyeing a second term in the House of Representatives--had earlier sought to disqualify Racal for allegedly being a nuisance candidate. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has ruled in favor of Pleyto.

"Let me be clear: I have never threatened, harassed, or caused harm to any political rival nor will I ever condone such behavior. I have always upheld the principles of democracy and fair play in every election I have participated in, and I remain committed to a clean and honest campaign this May," he said.

In the same statement, Pleyto said that he had requested both Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Boying Remulla and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct an impartial and independent investigation into any and all allegations being circulated "as early as last year".

"I am personally following up with NBI Director Judge Jimmy Santiago, whom I deeply respect, to ensure that the process moves forward and the truth comes out. I am confident that the truth shall prevail and we must let the axe fall where it may," he said.

"I trust that the [DOJ] will act with fairness, and I welcome any legal process that will allow me to clear my name," added Pleyto.

He called on the public to shun allegations the have no basis or shred of evidence supporting them.

"I call on my fellow candidates to keep the campaign focused on platforms and performance. Let us not allow old-style politics, character assassination, and misinformation to take center stage. Our people deserve better," he further said.

 

Related Tags

salvador pleyto sr. Attempted murder BULACAN matalinong boto 2025
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