Drilon: Senate probe yielded enough evidence vs. Albayalde

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon agreed Monday with Senator Richard Gordon that the blue ribbon and justice committees’ investigation has yielded enough evidence for the filing of charges against resigned Philippine National Police chief Police General Oscar Albayalde.

“I agree with the report recommending graft and drug charges against Gen. Albayalde and the ninja cops. The Senate investigation yielded substantial evidence to support at least a probable cause or prima facie case to warrant the filing of a criminal case vs. Albayalde et al,” Drilon said.

However, he refused to comment on the seriousness of the PNP to pursue cases against its former chief.

Earlier in the day, the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection group filed charges against Albayalde in connection with controversial buy-bust operation in Pampanga in 2013. 

“Until I see the result, I will reserve comment/judgment on PNP's seriousness in pursuing the case. The proof of the pudding is in the eating, as they say,” Drilon said.

“I agree with the PNP's assertion that Gen Albayalde et al are presumed innocent until proven guilty. How I wish, however, that  the same principle was applied to the more than 5,000 Tokhang victims,” he added, referring to the anti-illegal drug war of the administration.

On Friday, Gordon, committee chairman, said Albayalde is very liable for graft and he could also be charged with Section 27 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2001. — RSJ, GMA News