First Gentleman Mike Arroyo called after chopper deal expose–witness

MANILA, Philippines — Former First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo has allegedly phoned Archibald Po, president of Lionair Incorporated, who implicated him in the anomalous purchase of second-hand helicopters to the Philippine National Police.

Po said yes when Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, during Tuesday’s hearing of the blue ribbon committee, asked if Arroyo called him after the controversy erupted.

“What did he [Arroyo] say?” asked Estrada.

“Just wondering what’s happening,” Po said.

Estrada then asked if Arroyo tried to stop him from testifying on the issue.

“Well, nobody has told me not to testify…It was a very short conversation,” Po said, adding that the conversation lasted for less than a minute.

Po said it was the first time after a “long silence” that he heard from Arroyo.

Po testified that Arroyo bought five helicopters, of which two were sold as brand new to the Philippine National Police.