Manila, Jan. 22 -- Malacanang on Thursday dismissed as baseless a second impeachment complaint filed against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., this time lodged by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) and endorsed by the Makabayan Bloc, saying the allegations lack proof and are largely speculative.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the complaint, which accuses the President of abuse of discretionary powers over unprogrammed appropriations in the national budget and alleged involvement in budget-related kickbacks, is "story-weaving" without substance.

"Kapag sinabi nilang abusive, kailangan talagang i-prove ito. Kung wala naman po silang mailalagay na anumang pruweba sa kanilang complaint ay nagagawa lamang po silang kuwento, naghaha...