Ebdane to answer poll fraud allegations in ‘proper forum’

OLONGAPO CITY, Philippines—Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. said Friday he will answer allegations raised by Senior Superintendent Rafael Santiago on his supposed involvement in the rigging of the results of the 2004 presidential election “in the proper forum.”

“I will answer the allegation in the proper forum. I cannot quarrel with him (Santiago) in the media. These are allegations I don’t intend to dignify,” Ebdane, a former Philippine National Police chief, said in a text message sent to the Inquirer.

He said he did not know Santiago’s motive in linking him to the alleged election fraud.

“As to his motive, please address that to him. Let the issue run its course,” Ebdane said.