At least 2 new witnesses to testify vs Mike Arroyo in chopper deal—Lacson

CHOPPER DEAL PROBE. Senators gather during the hearing on July 28, 2011 over the controversial purchase by the Philippine National Police of alleged second-hand helicopters that were passed off as brand new (from L-R) Senators Teofisto Guingona and Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, PNP Police Director Luizo Ticman and Senator Panfilo Lacson, whose committee is spearheading the investigation. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – At least two new witnesses will testify on Thursday in the Senate to present further proof that former First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo previously owned the helicopters that were sold to the Philippine National Police, Senator Panfilo Lacson said Tuesday.

Lacson refused to identify the witnesses but said they would establish the ownership of the second-hand helicopters that were purchased by the PNP in 2009.

“Mas mabigat kaysa kay Archibald Po [Their testimonies are more significant],” said Lacson, referring to the Lionair president who testified in the Senate last week and pointed to Arroyo as the owner of the used choppers.