Marcoleta 'solicited' campaign funds from coaccused—witness

A government witness testified before the Sandiganbayan on Thursday that Senator Rodante Marcoleta had "solicited" campaign funds from businessman Aristotle Viray, one of the lawmaker's coaccused in a plunder case. Maria Melinda Mananghaya-Henson of the Office of the Ombudsman's Field Investigation Bureau provided the testimony during the bail hearing for the case, which stemmed from Marcoleta's alleged involvement in corruption. According to the witness, Viray provided funds for Marcoleta's election campaign. This testimony raises new questions about campaign financing practices in Philippine politics and the relationship between public officials and individuals facing corruption charges. Marcoleta has faced previous investigations into corruption allegations, and this latest testimony could impact his political standing. The issue of transparency and proper sourcing of election funds is a perennial concern in the Philippines, and this incident underscores the need for adherence to ethical codes for public officials and regulations concerning fund-raising. Information Source: Inquirer NewsInfo