Nancy Binay on Makati cake controversy: I don't know how to bake

MANILA, Philippines - Senator Nancy Binay on Tuesday denied involvement in the Makati City government's project of free birthday cakes to its senior citizens.

In a statement, Binay condemned the claim of former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado that she had financial interest in the supply of the alleged overpriced cakes.

Binay said she will never be involved in any activity that violates rules on conflict of interests particularly in businesses related to the Makati City government and the national government.

"While I wish I can bake, but I do not know how to bake. Wala akong bakeshop, at bakit ako magsu-supply sa city hall e bawal na bawal yun?" Binay said.

During the second Senate Blue Ribbon sub-committee hearing on the Makati City Hall II parking building, Mercado alleged that Binay managed the production of the cakes before she was elected as senator.

His allegation came after lawyer Renato Bondal said in the first hearing last week that the cakes cost more than P1,000 each. The Makati City government dismissed this claim, saying the cake's price is about P300.

Binay believes that her implication into the cake controversy is part of the demolition job done by her family's political enemies.

"We can see here na ako na po ang next family member on their demolition list," Binay said.

Mercado used to serve as the vice mayor of Vice President Jejomar Binay. They had a falling out in 2010 when the latter did not field him as his bet in the Makati mayoral race.

Like Bondal, Mercado alleged that the older Binay amassed kickbacks from the construction of the controversial carpark building.

The Vice President and his son, incumbent Makati City Mayor Junjun Binay, are facing a plunder complaint filed by Bondal. They have repeatedly denied the allegations.

The younger Binay, however, was not present in today's Senate hearing.