Benhur Luy drops Baligod as lawyer in 'pork' scam case

MANILA, Philippines - Key pork barrel scam whistle-blower Benhur Luy has relieved Levito Baligod as his legal counsel.

Justice Secretary Leila De Lima announced that Luy has sent a letter to Baligod informing him of his release effective March 3, according to television and radio reports.

Luy reportedly severed his ties with Baligod citing the lawyer's supposed lack of time.

Breaking: Whistle-blowers in 'pork' scam drop Levito Baligod as lawyer due to his other advocacies | @edupunay

— The Philippine Star (@PhilippineStar) Marso 4, 2014

De Lima said the state witness still thanked Baligod for his services in the sent letter.

The Justice secretary, meanwhile, assured that Baligod's departure from Luy's camp won't affect the case that they have filed against those involved in the P10-billion pork barrel scam.

Luy has accused his second cousin, businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, of masterminding the multi-billion-peso racket that diverted lawmakers's pork barrel funds to fake foundations that she supposedly set up.

More than 30 people are facing charges for pocketing kickbacks or for their involvement in the scam, including Napoles and Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon Revilla Jr.

Napoles remains jailed in Fort Sto. Domingo in Laguna in connection with the serious illegal detention charges filed by Luy. - Louis Bacani