Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has denied any wrongdoing in connection with a ₱30-million campaign donation he received from a government contractor during his 2022 senatorial campaign, insisting that all transactions were lawful, transparent, and properly declared.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) earlier issued a show cause order directing Escudero to explain the donation from Lawrence Lubiano, who was identified as a government contractor. Under the Omnibus Election Code and relevant campaign finance rules, candidates are prohibited from accepting contributions from individuals or entities with contracts or pending business with the government.
Escudero maintained that no laws were broken, emphasizing that his campaign’s finances had been fully reported to the Comelec.
“I have not violated any law. The donation was legal, properly declared, and in compliance with existing election regulations,” the senator said, adding that he welcomes the Comelec inquiry as an opportunity to clear his name.
Escudero also underscored that the contribution was made in good faith and went through the proper channels, reiterating his commitment to transparency and accountability in all his political undertakings.
However, the controversy surrounding the donation has deepened following a separate ethics complaint filed against him in the Senate. According to a report by Inquirer.net, the complaint accuses Escudero of violating ethical standards by accepting money from a government contractor, arguing that it undermines public trust and raises questions about conflict of interest.
The complainant, whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed, urged the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges to investigate Escudero’s alleged violation and impose sanctions if warranted. The ethics panel is expected to deliberate on whether the complaint is sufficient in form and substance before proceeding to a full inquiry.
Despite the mounting controversy, Escudero said he remains confident that the truth will prevail once all facts are presented.
“This issue is being blown out of proportion. I have nothing to hide, and I am ready to face any investigation, whether by Comelec or by the Senate,” he stated.
The Comelec has yet to issue an official statement regarding the timeline for Escudero’s formal response, while the Senate ethics panel has not confirmed when it will take up the complaint.
The case has sparked renewed public debate on the enforcement of campaign finance laws and the accountability of elected officials. Legal experts note that this could become a test case for how strictly the Comelec and the Senate apply transparency and ethics rules in handling campaign contributions from individuals linked to government projects.
