Pagdilao defended by own brother, states track record

The brother of Chief Supt. Joel Pagdilao comes to his defense citing his good track record and accomplishments would disprove the accusation that he is involved in the illegal drugs trade, GMA News' Mariz Umali reported.

"Joel's record will speak for himself. He has arrested numerous big time drug personalities and seized volumes of drugs as director of QCPD (Quezon City Police District) and NCRPO (National Capital Region Police Office). This is on record," said Ret. Gen. and former senatorial bet Samuel Pagdilao through a text message sent to GMA News.

"In his 32 years, he (Joel Pagdilao) has not been linked nor charged for any involvement in drugs. Against this backdrop, what are the evidence stacked against him?" he added.

Samuel underscored that he supports Duterte's campaign against drugs and promotion of peace and order in the country.

"But just like anybody, my brother is entitled to his day in court and I am positive that he will be given this and eventually clear himself. Let's pray that God will ferret out the truth," he added.

Joel Pagdilao was one of five police generals named by President Rodrigo Duterte who are allegedly involved in illegal drugs in his speech at the 69th anniversary of the Philippine Air Force on Tuesday.

The other generals are Philippine National Police Deputy Director General Marcelo Garbo Jr., former PNP Chief Supt. and incumbent Daanbantayan Mayor Vicente Loot, and QCPD Director Edgardo Tinio.

Duterte mentioned "General Diaz," but according to GMA News sources he may be referring to PNP Region 6 Director Bernardo Diaz.

The officials have been relieved of their assignments and were instructed by Duterte to report to PNP Director General Ronald dela Rosa.

Most of the generals named by Duterte denied their involvement in the illegal drugs trade. — BAP, GMA News