QUEZON CITY — Lawyers for Ramil Lagunoy Madriaga on Wednesday defended the statements contained in his sworn affidavit after Vice President Sara Duterte reportedly filed a perjury complaint against him.
In a statement released by Palad Lauron Palad & Te Law Firm, Madriaga’s legal counsel said their client stands by the accuracy of his affidavit and is ready to answer the complaint before the proper authorities.
The firm stressed that perjury is a serious criminal charge that requires strict legal proof.
“For perjury to prosper, it must be shown that the statement is false, material to the issue, and made with deliberate intent to mislead,” the lawyers said.
They noted that such elements must be established through evidence and legal proceedings rather than speculation or statements made in public discourse.
Madriaga’s counsel also highlighted the timeline of events, explaining that the affidavit in question was signed and notarized on Nov. 29, 2025 and was submitted as part of the impeachment proceedings.
The lawyers questioned why the complaint was filed only recently, saying the public may consider whether the move is a legal response or a reaction to sworn statements that raised important concerns.
They further pointed out that Madriaga remains entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence.
According to the firm, attempts to discredit their client publicly do not address the substantive issues that were raised in the affidavit, particularly those involving questions on the use of confidential funds.
Madriaga, the lawyers said, executed the affidavit in good faith and based on information he believed to be truthful.
The legal team said they welcome the opportunity to respond to the complaint in the appropriate forum, emphasizing that the matter should ultimately be resolved through facts and evidence presented before authorities.
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