Veteran broadcast journalist and GMA News anchor Arnold Clavio has strongly denied allegations that he was among the media personalities who allegedly received money-filled paper bags from former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co.
The accusation surfaced during a press conference on June 16 organized by former Anakalusugan Party-list Representative Mike Defensor, where former bodyguards and alleged bagmen of Co made claims regarding the supposed distribution of cash to lawmakers and members of the media.
During the press conference, one of the former aides alleged that he witnessed paper bags containing money being delivered to several media personalities, including Clavio.
“Na-assign po ako sa isang PR na taga-media na si Bernard Peralta. Doon ko po nakita yung mga nabibigyan po ng mga paper bag, na mga anchor na taga-media, kagaya po ni Arnold Clavio,” the former bagman claimed.
The speaker added that he would disclose additional details in his affidavit.
“At doon lang po muna, sa affidavit ko na lang po yung ibang kuwan… sampol lang ho ‘yon, marami pa ho akong mga nakilala.”
Shortly after the press conference, Clavio responded through an Instagram post, categorically denying the allegations and challenging his accuser to present evidence.
“LIES.”
“Nakakatawa.”
“Nakakalungkot. Pero lahat ng ito ay haharapin ko ng walang takot. Talk is cheap. Bago ang dada, ebidensya muna. Hindi ako natatakot. Wala akong itinatago,” Clavio wrote.
The veteran broadcaster also signaled his intention to pursue legal action against those making the allegations.
“Magkita na lang kami sa korte, at doon ulitin niya lahat ng kanyang walang ka kwenta-kwentang bintang,” he added.
Following the controversy, GMA Network released an official statement acknowledging the allegations while urging the public not to jump to conclusions.
“GMA Network has noted the statements made during a press conference earlier today. The Network takes matters involving the integrity of our journalists seriously,” the network said.
The company added that it would further assess the matter.
“The Network will evaluate the matter further. GMA Network remains committed to responsible journalism. We ask the public to refrain from drawing conclusions based on unverified information.”
The accusations against Clavio emerged as part of a broader series of claims made during the press conference involving alleged cash deliveries to various personalities.
As of writing, no documentary evidence supporting the allegations against Clavio has been publicly presented.
For his part, the longtime broadcaster has maintained his innocence and reiterated that he is prepared to confront the accusations through legal channels.
