Aquino on allegations vs Binay: Truth will set us free

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno S. Aquino III denied personally knowing the allegations that Vice President Jejomar Binay earned kickbacks from public infrastructure projects in Makati City.

In a media interview in Davao City on Monday, Aquino said he does not know if the corruption allegations are true.

"At the end of the day, the truth will set us all free. Now, do I have knowledge as to the veracity of the accusations against the Vice President? I have no personal knowledge of the same," Aquino said.

He said his information about the allegations is primarily based on what the media has reported.

"I have nothing to add at this point in time as to the truth or falsehood of the accusations against the Vice President," the president said.

Binay and his son, Makati City Mayor Erwin "Junjun" Binay, are facing a plunder complaint for supposedly benefiting from the allegedly overpriced Makati City Hall II parking building.

During the three Senate Blue Ribbon sub-committee hearings on the controversy, witnesses including former Makati officials accused the vice president of benefiting from other city projects as well and manipulating government biddings.

The Binays have denied the allegations, claiming that the plunder complaint and the Senate probe are "politicized."