The political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines on Monday retracted its allegations that a congressman and his uncle, the governor of Northern Samar, were involved in the illegal drugs trade in the province.
In a report by Radyo Inquirer 990AM, Fr. Santiago Salas, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front (NDF) – Eastern Visayas, cleared Northern Samar Representative Edwin Ong and Northern Samar Governor Jose Ong of links to the illegal drugs trade.
The report said the organization made the accusation two months earlier.
READ: NDF links solon, gov to drug trade
The NDF also said it is not turning a blind eye on the issue and would conduct immediate action if the accusations were proven true.
Through his spokesman, Edwin Ong earlier denied these accusations and blamed political opponents close to the rebels. He said such claims were part of a “smear campaign” against his family.
READ: Northern Samar solon, gov linked to drugs ready to face NDF
However, the NDF did not mention Laoang Mayor Hector Ong and his wife, former mayor Madeleine Ong, who were included in President Rodrigo Duterte’s list of government officials allegedly involved in illegal drugs trade. Hector Ong is the brother of Jose Ong.
The municipal mayor of Laoang earlier denied that he and his wife are “narco-politicians.”
“I categorically deny that we are narco politicians. We are public servants,” Hector Ong told media. “We are willing to be investigated… in fact, we actively support President Duterte’s strong stance against illegal drugs. We will not allow illegal drugs to ruin our nation’s future.” Jaehwa Bernardo, INQUIRER.net trainee/KS/rga
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