PNP hand in Lozada abduction bolsters Palace involvement -- Bayan

Press Statement
February 6, 2007

Reference: Renato M. Reyes, Jr.
Secretary General


The admission of Philippine National Police Chief Avelino Razon that they indeed have custody of Senate witness Jun Lozada bolsters the view that Malacanang is the most interested in silencing Lozada.

The abduction of Lozada is most condemnable. It smacks of utter disregard for the law and our institutions. The Arroyo government will not be stopped, not even by the Senate, from intimidating witnesses to corruption. A warrant of arrest from the Senate is out for Lozada yet the PNP completely ignored this when they took Lozada into custody.

Whatever becomes of Lozada's testimony after his abduction by the PNP, Malacanang will still have to explain why it has obstructed the Senate investigation.

The Arroyo regime's arrogance and disregard for the law know no bounds. Lozada is just one of the many witnesses “escorted” and “protected” by the Palace. Others include Udong Mahusay, witness to the Jose Pidal scandal, and Vidal Doble, witness to the wiretapping of Mrs. Arroyo. Witnesses have been dealt with harshly as a warning to any future whistleblowers.

We encourage Lozada to still come out with the truth regarding the overpriced and bribe-tainted ZTE broadband scandal. The best protection from this regime is to come out with the truth before the people.
6 Feb 2008 - 15:57 by bayan