NDF clears N. Samar solon, gov of any links to drug trade

From the Daily Tribune (Aug 8): NDF clears N. Samar solon, gov of any links to drug trade

The embattled Ong family from Northern Samar being accused of having links to drugs found an unlikely ally in the National Democratic Front (NDF)-Eastern Visayas, as they cleared Northern Samar Rep. Edwin Ong and his uncle, Northern Samar Gov. Jose Ong, of any links to illegal drugs.

“There is no truth and factual basis in the allegations of the Ongs’ participation in the illegal drugs trade in the province of Northern Samar. If the Ongs were involved in illegal drug trade, we will certainly not be blind and we would have definitely taken immediate action,” said Fr. Santiago “Ka Sanny” Salas, NDF-Eastern Visayas spokesman.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region VIII in Eastern Visayas also declared that the two Ongs are not involved in any illegal drug activities.

PDEA Region 8 Director Laurefel Gabales refuted allegations against the Ongs, saying he ordered his men to investigate them based on reports that reached his office.

After the investigation, Gabales said they could not find any evidence that would link the Ongs to illegal drugs.

Gabales said he received reports on the Ongs’ alleged illegal activities before the May 9 elections, the reason why PDEA Region VIII immediately checked the information.

According to Gabales, the accusations against Rep. Ong and Gov. Ong are baseless which surfaced before the election.

 http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/ndf-clears-n-samar-solon-gov-of-any-links-to-drug-trade