Razon vows to cooperate with armored vehicles deal probe

MANILA, Philippines—Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Avelino Razon welcomes the investigation on his link to the alleged anomalous repair and refurbishing of V-150 light armored vehicles.

“My name was cited because I am the then chief PNP, but that does not mean that I am involved as far as the repair was concerned,” Razon told reporters Thursday.

Razon said he would cooperation with the inquiry to be conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). “I will cooperate with the investigation to clear my name,” he said.

He said his inclusion in the investigation was only because he was a signatory to the documents. “I don’t see any personal reason.”

At the same time, he pointed out that the term “ghost repair” should be corrected because there was an actual repair done.

“It should be alleged anomalous or irregular not ghost repair,” Razon said.

Razon said that he was satisfied that the fact finding committee included him in the probe. “I believe that they acted in good faith.”

PNP Director General Raul Bacalzo has ordered the CIDG to investigate and determine the criminal liability of certain PNP officials and some suppliers involved in the contract. The repair and refurbishing of 28 V-150 light armored vehicles cost P409.74 million in 2007.

Among the police officials invited to shed light on the transaction are Razon, the former chief of the National Head Quarters Bids and Awards Committee, retired Director General Reynaldo Varilla, retired Police Director Charlemaign Alejandrino, retired Police Director Rey Roderos, retired Chief Superintendent Mario San Diego and retired Chief Superintendent Teodorido Lapuz.