Pagdilao's ma on drug links: My son is innocent

PINILI, Ilocos Norte – The mother of National Capital Region Police Office chief Joel Pagdilao, one of the police generals allegedly linked to the illegal drugs trade, dismissed accusations that her son is a protector of drug syndicates.

 Anunciacion Pagdilao, former mayor of Pinili, came to her son's defense, saying "My son is innocent. I am very sure because we do not tolerate such act."

On Tuesday, President Rodrigo Duterte named Pagdilao as one of the top police generals allegedly involved in protecting the illegal drugs trade.

"I am surprised to know that. But if there’s an accusation, they should back it with evidence," former mayor Pagdilao said.

Aside from Pagdilao, Duterte also accused former Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Marcelo Garbo Jr., retired Chief Superintendent Vicente Loot, Chief Superintendent Bernardo Diaz of Police Regional Office 6, and former Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Chief Superintendent Edgardo Tinio as protectors of drug syndicates.

 The five retired and incumbent police officials have vehemently denied the accusation.

 The National Police Commission, in a press conference on Wednesday, said that it has formed a team to investigate the allegations. The results of their investigation will be out in a month, a senior commission official said.

 For Ilocos Norte residents, the alleged involvement of Pagdilao who maintains a "good name" in Pinili town is “shocking”.

 The Pagdilaos of Pinili have ruled the town for decades. The former mayor and her husband, Samuel Pagdilao, Sr. have alternately held the top executive post of Pinili town, backed by loyal supporters, town councilors and village chiefs. – Philippines News Agency