PNP files plunder raps vs Mike A., others

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) has filed plunder charges against former first gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo for his alleged involvement in the PNP's anomalous purchase of helicopters in 2009.

In a press conference, Director Samuel Pagdilao Jr. of the PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group said that the investigating body is confident that it has strong evidence against Arroyo.

Archibald Po and Renato Sia, president and general manager of Lionair Inc., respectively, and Hilardio de Vera, president of the Manila Aerospace Products Trading were also charged with plunder before the Office of the Ombudsman for their alleged direct role in the anomalous deal.

Also named as respondents in the plunder case were former Interior and Local Government secretary Ronaldo Puno and former PNP chief Jesus Verzosa.

Both officials have denied liability in the purchase of second-hand helicopters in hearings conducted by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

Retired and active officials of the PNP, who were part of the bids and awards and inspection and acceptance committees, have also been charged with plunder.

Charges of graft, meanwhile, were also filed against lower ranking officers who were part of the inspection and acceptance committee.

Pagdilao had assured senators at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing last week that they will file charges before the Office of the Ombudsman against those involved in the anomalous purchase of three helicopters in 2009.

Senators had said that the PNP's purchase of three helicopters in 2009 was anomalous. Based on the PNP's supply contract, all three helicopters should have been brand new.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson revealed that two of the three helicopters were actually pre-owned, but sold to the PNP at a price for a brand new unit.

In the hearings, Po and De Vera revealed that Arroyo owned the two used helicopters. The two businessmen testified that Arroyo forced the sale of the helicopters to the PNP.

Arroyo has filed perjury complaints against Po and other officials of Lionair Inc.