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Ousted PDEA exec cries foul over removal from post

September 18, 2012 11:00am

Although he claims to be willing to face an investigation over his supposed shortcomings, the ousted deputy of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Tuesday cried foul over his sudden relief.

According to relieved PDEA deputy Carlos Gadapan, even before Malacañang ordered his relief, PDEA chief Jose Gutierrez already began to restrict his authority.

Gadapan alleged that this happened after he informed Gutierrez about his wife's heavy gambling.

Gadapan said Gutierrez was "in disbelief" about reports of his wife's gambling.

After this incident, Gadapan claimed that he was suddenly stripped of his powers, including the authority to allow PDEA operations.

Gadapan said he was never informed on why he was relieved from his post, adding that his relief order merely stated he was being removed from his post.

He said he would be willing to face an investigation if needed.

"Kung may investigation, I am ready to face anybody," he said.

"Walang ginawang masama"

In an interview over radio dzBB, Gadapan said, "Wala akong natandaang ginawang masama sa PDEA. Ako nag-initiate ng magandang bagay diyan."

Gadapan added that his ouster had affected even his eight-year-old child, who reportedly complained that he did not go home early because of his work.

"I spent all my time sa agency," Gadapan said.

Gadapan also said he played a major role in convincing lawmakers to restore P100-million in the PDEA's budget.

Clearing his family's name

Gadapan said he is not interested in being reinstated to his post at PDEA, saying his main goal was to clear his and his family's name.

"My primary objective is to clear my name and that of my family ... Hindi na ako (interesado) maibalik man diyan," he said.

"Sinabi ng presidente, loss of trust and confidence. (Sa akin) bago magsalita ng ganoon dapat malaman ang katotohanan," he added.

In a text message to reporters, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on Monday said Gadapan has been relieved as deputy director general for operations of PDEA.

"Yes, we confirm that he has been relieved for loss of confidence," Lacierda said without elaborating.

An earlier report of radio dzBB said the relief order was signed by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. - VVP, GMA News