74 gov’t execs, 154 others face raps

ESPINOSA. (Contributed photo/ Inquirer.net)

PALO, Leyte—At least 74 government officials and 154 civilians will face charges for allegedly protecting the illegal drug operation of Kerwin Espinosa, who has been tagged as the biggest drug lord in Eastern Visayas.

These people were identified by Kerwin’s father, Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr. of Albuera town in his seven-page affidavit that detailed his son’s illegal operation, said Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa.

He told a news conference on Tuesday that the filing of the charges had been detailed because they were strengthening the evidence against the suspects, who included “exciting personalities.”

Dela Rosa said they were getting the affidavits of nine allies of the Espinosas who could corroborate the claim of the mayor that these individuals were receiving protection money from Kerwin.

Senior Insp. Jovie Espenido, Albuera police chief, said those who were holding government positions would be charged at the Office of the Ombudsman.

He added the documents that they had put together were voluminous that these could fit inside a multicab.

Dela Rosa, who was here for the 115th police service anniversary at the PNP Eastern Visayas headquarters at Camp Ruperto Kangleon, was given a copy of the affidavit of Mayor

Espinosa by Espenido and Chief Supt. Elmer Beltejar, police regional director.

Dela Rosa smiled when he saw the names on the list, said Espenido.

During a news conference, Dela Rosa was asked to reveal the names of the people linked by the mayor in the illegal drug trade.

But he declined, saying they needed to file the cases first so arrest warrants would be issued.

“There were many exciting personalities (dragged by the mayor). You will be interested to know them. They are prominent,” De la Rosa said.