In a stunning development that has captured the attention of political observers and the public alike, high-profile lawyer Ferdinand “Atty.” Topacio has released testimonial video evidence that he claims will dismantle Senator Risa Hontiveros’s credibility. The video, now circulating on social media and covered widely by local news outlets, features key witnesses allegedly contradicting their previous testimonies from the Senate hearings. According to Topacio, these revelations will shake the foundations of the investigations once led by Hontiveros, especially those surrounding the controversial Pharmally deals and subsequent accusations of corruption.

The footage, said to be filmed independently of any Senate setting, allegedly shows a former Pharmally insider admitting they were coached and even paid to deliver statements during the Senate inquiry that painted government-linked transactions in a negative light. If true, this would not only be a direct challenge to Hontiveros’s integrity but could also signal a broader issue of credibility and conduct within legislative inquiries. Topacio insists this is just the tip of the iceberg, suggesting that more witnesses are ready to come forward with similar claims of manipulation and intimidation.

This isn’t the first time these two figures have clashed. Hontiveros previously accused individuals tied to Pharmally of wrongdoing during the pandemic, citing the procurement of substandard face shields and overpriced medical supplies. Topacio has always maintained his clients were scapegoats in a politically charged spectacle. Now, with this video evidence, he is pushing back hard—portraying the senator as a central figure in an orchestrated narrative aimed at misleading the public and damaging reputations.

For her part, Hontiveros has strongly denied the claims, calling the video a malicious fabrication designed to tarnish her name and derail her advocacy work. Her team has already lodged a complaint with the National Bureau of Investigation, alleging cyberlibel, witness intimidation, and the spreading of fake news. According to her statement, these are desperate attempts to silence those who have dared to speak the truth in the face of powerful interests.

The stakes are undeniably high. If the video holds weight in court or before ethics panels, it could lead to serious legal consequences not just for Hontiveros but potentially for the Senate’s credibility in conducting investigations. Conversely, if the evidence is proven doctored or taken out of context, it could mark a major blow to Topacio’s standing and to the narrative being pushed by his camp.

This unfolding drama is more than a personal or political feud—it reflects the deep tensions in Philippine politics, where perception, public trust, and media play critical roles in shaping outcomes. Whether this will lead to vindication or further division remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the public is watching closely, and the truth, whatever it may be, will have lasting consequences.