Barangay chiefs linked to drugs? PNP verifying list

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is verifying the possible link to illegal drugs of about 40 percent of barangay captains nationwide.

PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the list is being verified by the police Directorate for Intelligence out of the total 42,028 barangay officials.

He said the PNP and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency are confirming the barangay officials involved in the illegal drug trade.

After verification, the PNP chief said investigators will then proceed to case buildup, but if the barangay chairman has really turned his back on the illegal drug trade, his records will be updated.

He said that once they confirm that the village officials are clean, they would be cleared and given the chance to change.

Earlier, President Duterte claimed that 40 percent of all barangay captains in the country are involved in drugs.

The President expressed desire that the barangay elections would again be postponed since he will not allow drug-tainted personalities to be elected as village officials.

Duterte said drug money may be used if there will be elections this year.

He revealed that he has advised lawmakers not to conduct elections in order to prevent narco-politicians from assuming barangay posts.