Duterte backs release of list of “narco-politicians” ahead of May polls

(Eagle News)—President Rodrigo Duterte wants the list of “narco-politicians” released ahead of the May elections.

Duterte made public his stance on the Department of the Interior and Local Government proposal on Wednesday, Feb. 20, in an interview with reporters.

“Or would you rather hindi na talaga lalabas ‘yung pangalan nila? Galit ako sa droga,” Duterte said.

Earlier, Philippine National Police spokesperson Senior Supt. Bernard Banac said the list was so far undergoing “validation.”

“We have to base our statements on evidence, hard facts,” Banac said.

Upon his assumption of office, Duterte released a list of then-high-ranking and former PNP officials who he said were engaged in illegal drug activities.

Those in the list were former National Police District Office chief Joel Pagdilao, former Quezon City Police District chief Edgardo Tinio, Chief Supt. Bernardo Diaz, retired Chief Supt. Vicente Loot and former deputy director-general Marcelo Garbo.