Northern Samar’s Ongs deny involvement in illegal drug trade

Incumbent Laoang, Northern Samar mayor Hector Ong and his wife Madeleine Mendoza-Ong on Sunday denied that they are involved in illegal drugs, saying that they are willing to submit themselves to police investigation.

The Ongs were on the list released by Duterte early Sunday of officials allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade.

"I will clear my name because the President himself has assured us that we will be given due process. But clearly, I categorically deny that we are narco-politicians. We are public servants," Mayor Hector Ong said in a emailed statement.

Ong added that he has been actively waging war against illegal drugs even before President Duterte was elected chief executive in May.

This was mirrored by former Laoang mayor Madeleine Ong, who said she was surprised to be included in the list.

"We are willing to be investigated. I think the list should be reviewed. But I trust that President Duterte will accord us due process," she said.

The Ongs added, "As ordered by President Duterte, we will comply by reporting to Camp Crame and cooperate in the investigation to be made."

Malacañang has already urged officials on the list to surrender and submit themselves to investigation if they want to clear their names. However, Duterte also said while naming these officials that their involvement "might be true or might not be true."

Both Ongs said they are willing to have a one-on-one talk with the President if only to clear their names. — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/BM, GMA News