Bulacan 6th District Representative Salvador “Ador” Pleyto / Facebook

MANILA, Philippines – Bulacan 6th District Representative Salvador “Ador” Pleyto said the attempted murder case filed against him by his political rival was a mere “desperate political ploy” to destroy his name. 

In a statement, the re-electionist lawmaker denied ever uttering threats against his rival Jad Racal as claimed by the latter’s camp. On Friday, Racal’s camp held a press conference announcing that they filed an attempted murder charge with possible complication with the anti-terror law against the 80-year-old lawmaker and several others including his children. 

“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. 

Racal’s lawyer called out to candidates to veer away from dirty campaigning taking a swipe at the incumbent lawmaker. According to him, an individual in possession of grenades attempted to kill his client but was unsuccessful. However his cohorts were able to escape. 

Pleyto belied such claims and said he has always played fair in every election he has participated in. 

“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,” Pleyto 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,” Pleyto said. 

Pleyto pleads DOJ, NBI to investigate 

Bent on proving his innocence, Pleyo himself brought the matter before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) for investigation. In his letters to both the DOJ and the NBI were sent as early as November 8 and 13, 2014, Pleyto narrated how stories of his and his sons’ involvement in the attempted murder of Racal came out on social media. 

The malicious posts, Pleyto said, have been causing safety and security threats to his family forcing him to seek investigation on the matter. 

“Today,  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,” Pleyto said. 

“I trust that the Department of Justice will act with fairness, and I welcome any legal process that will allow me to clear my name,” Pleyto said.