PGasia | Introduction to the House Panel’s Response
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MANILA, Philippines – In response to skepticism over the Senate’s handling of a drug trafficking investigation, a House committee has pledged to bring in reputable sources and witnesses for its own inquiry into the narcotics trade within the nation.
On Monday, May 13, Representative Paolo Ortega of La Union 1st District emphasized this commitment following the announcement by the House committee on dangerous drugs that it has summoned Michael Yang. Yang, a former presidential economic adviser to Rodrigo Duterte, is implicated in a P3.6-billion drug bust in Pampanga and is suspected of ties with drug cartels.
During a press conference, Representative Ortega stated, “We promise the public that only credible resource persons and witnesses will be invited to demonstrate our seriousness in addressing such conspiracies and characters. This is to reassure the public that the Marcos administration’s war on drugs is founded on genuine and reliable information.”
With this approach, the House panel aims to reinforce public confidence in the government’s ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes by ensuring transparency and integrity in the investigative process.
House versus Senate: Different Approaches to Investigation
In the Philippines, House members have expressed their dissatisfaction with the way their Senate counterparts handled an investigation into an alleged leak at the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). They criticized the main witness, a dismissed PDEA agent named Jonathan Morales, for lacking credibility.
Senate Hearings on Alleged PDEA Document Leaks
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa is presiding over the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs, which is investigating the alleged leaks of PDEA documents. These hearings are crucial for assessing the integrity of drug enforcement operations and enhancing transparency in government actions.
House Commitment to Proper Process
Representative Paolo Ortega emphasized that the House will adhere to the appropriate procedural standards in conducting its investigation. “You can’t just railroad the probe,” he remarked, highlighting the need for a thorough and methodical approach to ensure the investigation’s effectiveness and fairness.
Controversies Involving Michael Yang
Michael Yang, a figure previously embroiled in controversy, was also linked to Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation, a company that secured major government contracts to supply overpriced medical equipment during the pandemic. Yang was identified as the financier and guarantor for Pharmally, aiding them financially when they were unable to pay their suppliers, though Yang has denied these allegations.
Ako Bicol Representative Raul Angelo “Jil” Bongalon emphasized the complexities surrounding the individual’s involvement in multiple controversies. “Nakikita natin na talagang marami ang kailangang sagutin dahil na-i-involve ang kanyang pangalan sa iba’t ibang issues, even during the previous administration,” he stated. This assertion underscores the ongoing challenges and the depth of scrutiny required to untangle the web of concerns connected to these repeated allegations.
Investigation Findings on Suspected Drug-Related Companies and Ties to Former Government Officials
- Investigation Reveals Questionable Activities
- “During its May 8 hearing, the House committee found that some of the incorporators of Empire 999 – the company that owns the warehouse where illegal drugs were found in September last year – used questionable and presumably fake Philippine documents for government requirements.”
- Allegations of Shell Companies Linked to Past Administration
- “Abang Lingkod Representative Joseph Stephen Paduan also claims that Empire 999 created other shell companies or companies that are usually used for transaction purposes. These are apparently run by the same people who had links to the alleged ‘anomalous activities’ under the Duterte administration.”
Link to Shell Companies and Ongoing Investigations
During a recent hearing, concerns were raised about the operations of Empire 999 and its links to other shell companies reportedly used for questionable transactions. These companies, supposedly managed by individuals connected to alleged irregular activities during the Duterte administration, came under scrutiny.
Statements from Lawmakers
Representative Joseph Stephen Paduan pointed out, “I just want to make it clear that this is not conclusive. We just want to check the connection especially with regards to drugs and all those persons involved claiming to be Filipino.” His comments highlight the need for further investigation into these links to ascertain their extent and nature.
Meanwhile, Surigao del Norte 2nd District Representative Robert “Ace” Barbers, who chairs the committee, reported, “The activities of the other companies have not been unearthed yet, but the incorporators have gone into hiding already and have started disposing their assets.” This statement underscores the challenges faced in tracing and holding accountable those potentially involved in these activities.
