Prov'l ABC to look into arrest of barangay councilman

CEBU, Philippines - The Provincial Federation of the Association of Barangay Councils (FABC) will hold an independent inquiry into the arrest of a barangay captain in Pinamungajan town for possession of illegal drugs.

FABC President Jose Ribomapil Holganza Jr. who sits in the Provincial Board, told The FREEMAN the FABC will look into the complaint against Barangay Sacsac councilman Bienvenido Paslon.

The FABC will also assist Paslon should he request for assistance.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) already said that Paslon will have to remain in office until he is found guilty by the court. This means that his seat cannot be declared vacant until the court issues a ruling.

Paslon was arrested last week by operatives of the Investigation and Detective Management Branch of Cebu City Police Office after he was caught in the act of repacking illegal drugs inside his house in Villagonzalo II, Barangay Tejero.

IDMB operatives seized 12 packs of shabu during the raid and charged Paslon for possession of illegal drugs in court.

DILG-7 Director Pedro Noval, Jr. said the barangay council of Sacsac can impose sanctions against Paslon based on their own house rules. In fact, the council may expel Paslon because of his alleged habitual absenteeism.

Aside from expulsion, the council may also prevent Paslon from receiving his honorarium from the barangay.

Paslon denied owning the shabu, saying he was just sleeping in his room when he heard a noise outside. When he went out to check, he was arrested by the police.- (THE FREEMAN)