Hong Kong to release Singson soon from prison

VIGAN CITY, Philippines – Former Ilocos Sur Rep. Ronald Singson will soon be released from prison in Hong Kong after serving his 18-month prison term for possession of illegal drugs.

His younger brother, incumbent Ilocos Sur Rep. Ryan Luis Singson, announced yesterday that Ronald would be released on Jan. 14.

He said the family led by Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis Singson would tender a thanksgiving Mass and welcome dinner when Ronald comes home.

Hong Kong District Court Judge Joseph Yau sentenced Ronald to 18 months in jail last Feb. 24 after he was convicted of possession of prohibited drugs.

The drugs were found in his possession by authorities at the Hong Kong airport on July 11, 2010.

Judge Yau took cognizance of Ronald’s defense that he brought in the drugs for personal use and were not intended for commerce.

“He is not a commercial trafficker but someone who has become dependent on drugs. A person who needs help instead of being incarcerated,” Ronald’s lawyer John Reading had told the court.

The judge also took into consideration the former congressman’s previous good behavior and that he has no criminal record.

Ronald resigned his congressional seat and was replaced by his brother Ryan who won a special election to fill up the vacated congressional seat.