Gubernatorial Candidate from Guimaras and Three Others Arrested for Swindling and Illegal Firearms
GUIMARAS – A gubernatorial candidate, along with three others, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on February 13, 2025, for allegedly being involved in swindling and the illegal possession of firearms.
The individuals arrested included Maggie Cacho, a candidate for governor in the upcoming elections, and Cayetano Leal. They were charged under Republic Act 10951, which addresses swindling and fraudulent acts. Additionally, two members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), ASN Marwin Parpan and SN2 Rico Maylan, were apprehended for violating Republic Act 10591, which governs the regulation of firearms and ammunition. The two PCG personnel also violated the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 11067, which enforces a gun ban during the election period.
PLt Col. Arnel Solis, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6), confirmed that the CIDG Anti-Organized Crime Unit (AOCU) carried out the operation in close coordination with several agencies, including the Office of the Special Envoy on Transnational Crime (OSETC), the Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) 6, the Guimaras Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), and the Sibunag Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Solis also mentioned that reports have suggested a close connection between Cacho and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos. However, he clarified that despite this link, the operation was conducted under the direct supervision of the Office of the President. This emphasized that the investigation and arrest were independent of any political connections.
During the operation, authorities seized ₱400,000 in alleged boodle money, two firearms (a .45 caliber Armscor pistol and a 1911 .45 caliber pistol), ammunition, firearm holsters, and two mobile phones from the suspects. The individuals are currently in the custody of the CIDG, awaiting further investigation. Meanwhile, it was revealed that Cacho is a first cousin of First Lady Liza Marcos.
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