Palace: Up to Michael Yang to decide if he'll attend Senate probe

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang is leaving it to former presidential economic adviser Michael Yang to decide whether to attend investigations on his alleged involvement in narcotics trade. 

Opposition senator Leila de Lima has called for a "comprehensive" probe on Yang's alleged link to the illegal drug trade. The senator also asked the Senate to determine whether Yang abused his position as economic adviser for personal interest. 

Yang, a Davao-based Chinese businessman, has been accused by dismissed police officer Eduardo Acierto of involvement in illegal drugs trade but the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said the former policeman may be referring to another person. 

READ: PDEA chief: 'Michael Yang' in drug database not Duterte ex-adviser

De Lima, who is in jail over drug-related charges, also cited the need to inquire into the citizenship of presidential appointees like Yang as well as their influence over policies.

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the administration is leaving it to Yang to decide whether to attend the Senate probe or clear his name before the public,

"That’s for him to decide for himself. I’m not concerned," Panelo said. 

"That’s for him. My encouragement or discouragement is irrelevant. He is the person involved, so he decides for himself. He looks for a lawyer, not me or anybody else in this government," he added. 

READ: Panelo: Unless there's proof of drug links, Michael Yang has Duterte's trust

Panelo said those who think Yang is into illegal drugs should just file charges instead of making accusations before the media. 

"Whatever charges they have Michael Yang, if it’s true, then file the charges. We cannot be doing this in media or social media," he said. 

READ: 'Comprehensive’ probe sought into Yang’s alleged drug links