Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim yesterday said he will “not lift a finger” to help his 44-year-old son who was allegedly arrested by elements of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) during a drug bust in Binondo Friday night.
Lim said PDEA chief Dionisio Santiago called him up and informed him that they arrested his son, businessman Manny Santos Lim, in an alleged buy bust operation at the Pharaoh Hotel, located at the corner of Tomas Mapua and Dasmariñas streets.
Radio reports said the PDEA recovered 100 grams of shabu, estimated to be worth P600,000, from the suspect. They intend to file drug charges against him before the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“I told (retired) General Santiago congratulations to your men,” the 78-year-old Manila mayor said. “If (my son) violated the law then let the ax fall where it may. It has always been my philosophy in life that the law applies to all. I will not give special treatment to my relatives.”
Lim only helps those who are illegally arrested or unfairly accused. He said his son, whom he admitted he had not communicated with for the past several months, was already old enough to take responsibility for his actions.
“I will not provide him with a lawyer. He is already 44 years old and he should be ready to face the consequences of his actions. Let him suffer for his actions. I will not lift a finger to help him,” Lim said.
When asked if he knew if his son was involved in illegal drugs, he said he had no idea. “All I know is that he has family troubles.”