Links to illegal drugs? Mabilog dares accusers: ‘Prove that I’m a coddler’

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog challenged his detractors to prove their allegations that he has personal and close association with people involved in the illegal drugs trade.

“I am opening myself for investigation. They could investigate, and if proven that I’m an illegal drugs coddler, I am willing to resign,” declared Mabilog in an interview over RMN DYRI-Iloilo.

The mayor said intelligence personnel from other offices based in other parts of the country should conduct the investigation. “The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, being a national government agency, will know whether I am involved or not,” he said, adding that, without any hard evidence, the accusations remain a hearsay.

Reports of Mabilog’s alleged link to the illegal drugs trace actually came out some years back with photographs of him and an alleged illegal drug personality.

His accusers said the illegal drugs problem would not be solved for as long as the mayor remains “chummy with questionable individuals.”

Mabilog categorically said the allegations are false. “I have never been into illegal drugs. In fact, I am an advocate against illegal drugs.”

The mayor said he could present documents taken during peace and order council meetings that he wanted to pursue those behind the illegal drug trade in the city. “You cannot argue with facts,” he said.

However, while Mabilog declared he is willing to vacate his post if proven guilty, he also challenged his critics to also give up their posts in government if they could not prove that he is a drug coddler.

One of his known detractors was Councilor Plaridel Nava, a former ally. When asked what could have pushed Nava to accuse him, Mabilog cited that the councilor bore ill feelings “because I never made him part of my circle of advisers.” From then on, the gap between the two has widened, he said. (FREEMAN)