Iloilo barangay officials on drug watchlist re-elected

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Despite repeated calls not to vote for candidates allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade, two barangay captains on the drug watchlist in this city were re-elected.

Keith Espinosa, chairman of Barangay Monica-Bluementritt in this city, won another term. She is the wife of former barangay kagawad Jesus Jr. who is detained at the Iloilo district jail in Pototan for illegal drugs.

Espinosa is facing charges of obstruction of justice, corrupt practices, grave misconduct and graft in connection with the arrest of her husband following a raid on their house in 2016.

Remia Prevendido-Gregori was proclaimed barangay captain of Bakhaw, Mandurriao. She is the sister of slain drug suspect Richard Prevendido. Her son is also detained on drug charges.

Gregori and Espinosa were among the barangay captains investigated by the provincial board for alleged proliferation of illegal drugs in their respective areas. They surrendered under Oplan Tokhang in 2016, but denied links with drug lords.

Noel Odicta, brother of slain Western Visayas drug lord Melvin Odicta Sr., won as barangay kagawad of Tanza Esperanza.

Gemma Calzado also won as kagawad of Barangay Kasing-Kasing in Molo district in this city. She is the only former village chief included on the updated watchlist of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Chief Superintendent Cesar Hawthorne Binag, Western Visayas police chief, said they would monitor the activities of the newly elected barangay officials.