Gordon: Integrity of Albayalde, Aquino has been ‘stained’

(From left to right) Sen. Richard Gordon, PNP Chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde and PDEA Chief Aaron Aquino. FILE PHOTOS

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Richard Gordon said Wednesday that the initial turnout of the Senate investigation into “ninja cops” involved in the irregular anti-drug operation in 2013 tainted the integrity of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General Aaron Aquino.

Gordon believes there was neglect of duty on the part of Albayalde for not properly accounting his 13 men who had launched the operation in Mexico, Pampanga when he was the provincial director. 

READ: Magalong drops Albayalde’s name in ‘ninja cops’ probe

He said he was also disappointed with Aquino for allegedly retracting his supposed revelation that Albayalde phoned him in 2016 to not implement the dismissal order against the policemen involved in the questionable operation.

READ: ‘Lumambot:’ Gordon says Aquino retracted revelation on Albayalde’s phone call

“Nalamatan sila [Their integrity was stained]. They have to see their way clear,” Gordon told reporters in an interview, referring to both chiefs of the PNP and PDEA.

He also agreed with former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group director and now Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong that it was impossible for Albayalde not to have known what was happening during the irregular operation considering his designation back then.

He reiterated that Albayalde should “really consider resigning” following the wake of the controversy if he will not be able to explain himself well.

Asked if Aquino should also resign as PDEA chief, Gordon said: “It’s up to him. Men of integrity know what to do.” 

“Look at the guy at PMA [Philippine Military Academy]. Three-star general. I take full responsibility. I don’t wait for somebody to kick me out,” Gordon said, referring to Lt. Gen. Ronnie Evangelista who resigned as PMA superintendent in September due to the fatal hazing of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio. /jpv