PNP starts probe of ‘overpriced’ helicopters

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police has begun investigating allegations that helicopters that were bought early this year for the PNP were overpriced, a spokesman said Wednesday even before Senator Panfilo Lacson could go public on his accusation.

Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr. told reporters that upon the receipt of the report by the Air Unit of Special Action Force early this year that the two helicopters of the Manila Aerospace Products Trading (Maptra) were not brand new, the PNP has tasked the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management to investigate “with regard to the circumstances surrounding the delivery of the helicopters and, if evidence warrants, to file the appropriate criminal and/or administrative charges against those who erred in the performance of their duties.

Cruz also said that a demand letter was sent to Maptra to replace the helicopters with new ones and “to faithfully comply with the approved supply contract.”

The letter was immediately sent after it was found out during maintenance that the helicopter had logged flying hours, Cruz said.

Cruz said the Maptra has not yet responded to the letter.

Lacson has claimed that three helicopters were overpriced and two were made to appear brand new.