Contraband smuggling: CPDRC personnel under probe

CEBU, Philippines - At least eight personnel from the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) will be investigated for their alleged involvement in contraband smuggling inside the facility, said Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III.

“Naa sa akong lista, mga pito o walo. We will have them investigated. Ipatawag nato tagsa-tagsa, ako mismo ang mang-interview ana nila,” Davide said.

Ten personnel were reportedly recommended by the CPDRC task force to be relieved from their post.

Davide expressed displeasure towards the work performance of the 133 employees of CPDRC following the confiscation of P236,000 worth of suspected shabu found inside the facility's canteen during a greyhound operation last August 1.

The governor gave the employees until yesterday to meet with him and provide him with information.

Two employees met with Davide yesterday from whom Davide came up with the list of names he has promised to personally interview.

Davide added that he also received letters from another two CPDRC personnel.

“I also received a letter from a concerned CPDRC personnel. Gi-deliver sa amo, gi- DHL, gi courier, I read it last night (Thursday). Unya ganiha (Friday morning) pud kabasa ko (og letter) sa akong lamesa) naa pud, concerned personnel ra pud,” he said.

None of the CPDRC personnel who came forward felt that their lives are under threat but were appeased that they can now express their sentiments to the governor.

“Ang ilahang gisulti nako, dugay na sila gusto unta muari diri, mosulti. Reluctant lang pud sila kay they think dili sila maka-direkta diri ba but I told them na if you have something like an information, you tell me. Ayaw mo pagduha-duha,” Davide said.

Davide did not disclose the names of the personnel who came forward, saying he gave them assurance of confidentiality.

“I assured them that any information given will be confidential,” Davide said.

Davide said they are also looking into the alleged links of some CPDRC personnel with high-profile inmates inside the facility.

“Usa na sa atoang gitan-aw,” Davide. (FREEMAN)