PDEA chief says no to release of ‘narco list’ before May polls

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Director General Aaron Aquino said on Monday that he does agree with the release of the so-called ‘narco list’ or the list of politicians involved in illegal drugs before the May elections.

“The stand of PDEA is no. But it all depends on the order of the President,” he told INQUIRER.net in a text message.

Aquino’s pronouncement goes against the stand of Interior Secretary Eduardo Año and Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Oscar Albayalde, who both said that they support the release of the list to the public before the May polls.

READ: Narco-politicians to be identified within election period – DILG chief

READ: PNP chief backs release of ‘narco list’

Año, who was given authority by President Rodrigo Duterte to decide on the matter, said he will coordinate with PDEA on whether the controversial list should be out before the elections.

Eighty-three politicians, including mayors, vice mayors, governors, vice governors, and congressmen, were reportedly included in the list.

Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said releasing the list is unfair to politicians as it can be considered negative campaigning by the government. /ee