Pubdate: Wed, 01 Sep 2004
Source: Freeman, The (Philippines)
Copyright: 2001 The Freeman
Contact:  http://www.thefreeman.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3437
Author: Garry B. Lao

GMA TO LOOK INTO CALAMBA DRUG NOTORIETY

President Gloria Arroyo said that she would look into a complaint
about the notoriety of barangay Calamba as a hotbed of illegal drugs
after having been upset that police officers have been ineffective at
addressing it.

During the president's recent visit here, Mayor Tomas Osmena named
three police officers as responsible for the rising proliferation of
illegal drugs in barangay Calamba. Osmena named PRO-7 deputy
administration officer Julio Agosto, Col. Manuel Cabigon and Col.
Orlando Pestana to have reportedly been ineffective at addressing the
drug menace.

"I complained to the President about the drug situation here
especially in Calamba," Osmena said.

The President, according to Osmena was "upset" upon learning that the
police officers living in the area have been inutile to the
proliferation of illegal drugs.

Apart from illegal drugs, Calamba is also tagged as rife of illegal
gambling.

Barangay Calamba is under the jurisdiction of San Nicolas police
station. But Osmena did not so much as pressure San Nicolas policemen
to stamp out illegal gambling as they may only fall short of
expectations.

PNP Chief Edgardo Aglipay said he will look into the complaint on
notoriety of barangay Calamba as a hotbed for illegal drugs.

Pestano and Cabigon are on floating status at the Camp Crame in
Manila.