Llamas asked to explain pirated DVD issue

Presidential political adviser Ronald Llamas has until Wednesday to submit his written explanation on the P2,000 worth of pirated DVDs that he reportedly bought in Quezon City.   In a memorandum dated Jan. 27, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. ordered Llamas to “explain in writing within five days from receipt hereof why no administrative disciplinary proceedings should be taken against you.”   At a press briefing Monday, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the memorandum was issued upon the instruction of President Benigno Aquino III and was received by Llamas’ office at around 6 p.m. on Jan. 27.    In the memorandum, Ochoa cited media reports that Llamas was seen buying a stack of pirated DVDs in one of the stalls at Circle C mall in Quezon City.   Valte refused to say what sanctions could be given to Llamas, but said it would be according to the evidence that will be presented and Llamas’ explanation. She said Llamas will be given an opportunity to explain himself.   “The President is expecting a written explanation and we will go from there,” Valte said.     Asked if the President was angered by Llamas’ action, Valte said she cannot say as she has not seen Aquino. “Short to say the President is concerned that’s why he wants an explanation,” she added.   It was not the first time Llamas was involved in a controversy. Last year, a high-powered assault rifle was discovered in his SUV after a road accident in Quezon City. — Amita O. Legaspi/KBK, GMA News