New witnesses set to implicate former FG on helicopters deal-Senator Lacson

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 on 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.

Asked if the new witnesses were holding documentary evidence that would prove Arroyo’s ownership of the choppers, Lacson said, “ I suppose it will clearly establish the ownership.”

“First hand (information), I would say that much,” the senator added.

Lacson hinted that the testimony of the new witnesses may be more significant than that of Lionair president Archibald Po.

Po was the first witness who testified in the Senate, and directly implicated the former First Gentleman. The businessman alleged that he was the one who facilitated the purchase of five helicopters from Arroyo, two of which were sold to the PNP.

While Arroyo had already denied the allegation, Lacson said it would still be better for the former First Gentleman to appear at the scheduled Senate probe, and face his accusers.

But with or without Arroyo, Lacson said the Senate will push through with the investigation to “ferret out the truth”  about the former first gentleman’s supposed involvement in the controversy.