MANILA — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has called for individual affidavits from 18 self-proclaimed former bodyguards of ex-lawmaker Zaldy Co, who alleged the delivery of millions of pesos in kickbacks linked to flood control projects.

In a report, it said that in a text message to reporters, Remulla said separate sworn statements are necessary for the ongoing investigation.

“They should also issue individual affidavits,” he said.

The request came after the group’s lawyer, Atty. Levito Baligod, said his clients intend to fully disclose information before the Office of the Ombudsman regarding the allegations.

In an ambush interview, Baligod said the Ombudsman would be the proper venue for the presentation of evidence.

“Doon sa Ombudsman investigation, ‘yun ang medyo proper, no? So iisa-isahin ‘yan. Merong panel of investigators so doon nila ibibigay lahat pati ‘yung mga pictures, videos, doon lahat,” he said.

(As for the Ombudsman investigation, that is somewhat the proper venue, right? So everything will be taken up one by one. There is a panel of investigators, and that is where they will submit everything, including the pictures and videos.)

Baligod said the 18 former bodyguards have been invited to appear before the Ombudsman on June 11, 15, and 16.

The Office of the Ombudsman has been conducting a fact-finding investigation into the allegations.

“In fact, we have been regularly interviewing them even before. It’s part of the effort of the office not to leave any stone unturned. We will go where the evidence takes us,” Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said.