First lady, brother linked to illegal smuggling and price manipulation of agri goods | ANC
Allegations Against Philippine First Lady: Agricultural Import Scandal
Involvement of First Lady Lisa Araneta-Marcos
- The Philippine First Lady, Lisa Araneta-Marcos, and her brother Martin are implicated in a scheme involving agricultural imports, particularly rice and onions.
- Former Congressman Zaldico claims that the First Lady attempted to halt a House inquiry into rising onion prices in 2022 on behalf of her brother Martin, who is accused of controlling onion importation.
Investigation Stalled
- Zaldico alleges that the investigation was stopped after Speaker Romaldes received a call from the First Lady requesting its cessation.
- It is claimed that due to this intervention, no actions were taken against those involved in the alleged control over onion imports.
Allegations Against Agriculture Secretary
- Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel reportedly sought to prevent further inquiries by presenting a confidential report linking the First Lady to rice importers.
- Laurel faced reprimand from Speaker Romaldes for disclosing this confidential information regarding the First Lady's involvement in rice smuggling.
Political Pressure and Control Over Prices
- Zaldico also asserts that fish prices are being manipulated by certain companies with close ties to political figures, leading to complaints from various fish importers about their limited ability to operate freely.
- During budget hearings, Laurel rejected requests for significant allocations of fish containers amid allegations of pressure from lawmakers.
Campaign Funding Allegations
- Zaldico claims that collections from customs duties related to sugar and onion imports were allegedly used to finance the administration's campaign for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.