Press Conference of Cong. Dante Marcoleta on Miru Systems. Screengrab from Rodante Marcoleta

Sagip Partylist Representative Rodante Marcoleta has questioned the recent awarding of the 2025 automated election system contract to Miru System of Korea. He revealed startling findings, alleging the discovery of 49 offshore accounts linked to a Commission on Elections (Comelec) official prior to the contract's signing on March 11, 2024.

Marcoleta highlighted that these accounts span four countries, including Singapore, China/Hong Kong, Caribbean, and North America, involving a total of 18 banks. He expressed concern over the necessity of maintaining 49 offshore bank accounts, questioning their purpose given the amount of money involved, which he deemed not excessively large.

The congressman disclosed that these offshore accounts collectively hold approximately USD 15.2 million (almost PHP 1 billion), with at least USD 2.1 million (over PHP 120 million) traced back to deposits from Korean bank accounts between June 22, 2023, and March 22, 2024. Marcoleta emphasized the significance of this discovery, calling it alarming and indicating that verification efforts are ongoing.

In his statement, Marcoleta underscored the importance of safeguarding the sanctity, credibility, and integrity of the electoral process in the Philippines, urging vigilance among citizens and officials alike.