The People’s Right To Know

THE Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation on the alleged meddling of PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde in the dismissal of 13 Pampanga policemen or the so called “Ninja” cops who were then under his charge has placed his character and personal reputation under fire. Former CIDG Director and now Mayor of Baguio City Benjamin Magalong revealed Albayalde’s and those of the thirteen policemen’s shenanigans while they were all assigned in the Pampanga Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Force. It may be recalled that Albayalde is known to be close to President Rodrigo Duterte and was his personal choice as PNP Chief. In the meantime, the President in a statement in one official gathering said that he will await the recommendation/report of DILG Secretary Eduardo Ano before he makes his decision on any disciplinary action he will take on the incident. The Filipino people deserve the right to know the truth and the President should do no less.

During the Senate inquiry, Magalong said around 200 kilos of Methampetamine Hydrocloride (shabu) were seized in one anti-drug operation, but the policemen declared only 38 kilos. Magalong also revealed that the policemen were allegedly paid P50M by a Korean drug lord for his freedom after he was arrested.

On the local scene, the decision of the City Administration of Naga to cancel the Miss Earth Pageant slated to be held in Naga City is unfortunate. The business opportunities and sizable income it could have brought to the city is beyond measure. It would have also projected our city in the international limelight and pushed our local government’s environmental advocacy.

TRIVIA: Greetings to our AdeNU high school ‘54 batch mate Gil Malanyaon, who celebrated his birth anniversary last September 28 with a fellowship at his residence in Calabanga, Camarines Sur. Likewise, greetings also to Remy Armedi of Magarao, who will likewise celebrate her birthday anniversary among her USI high school batchmates this coming October 9.

Last Monday, September 28, USI high school class ‘55 Linda Acantalicio celebrated her birth anniversary among her batch mates at her residence in Baao, Camarines Sur. My spouse Minda belongs to the same USI batch.

Monigue Aclan, widow of the late Jose Aclan is sponsoring a luncheon gathering this coming October 7 on the occasion of the 40th-day of the death of her late husband at the Star Mark Cafe. Monigue is a member of USI high school batch ‘55.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK: “MEN AT SOME TIME ARE MASTERS OF THEIR FATE.” SHAKESPEARE

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE: “JUSTICE SHALL FLOURISH IN HIS TIME AND FULLNESS OF PEACE FOREVER.” PSALM 72