TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines- President Rodrigo Duterte has accused a former Cagayan town mayor of being involved in illegal drug operations in Cagayan Valley region.
In his speech during the oathtaking of the newly-promoted officers and appointed police officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Malacañan Palace on Thursday, January 19, Duterte named a certain Licerio Antiporda as member of “Antiporda drug group.”
“Region 2 elected officials. Licerio [Antiporda]. Barangay captain siguro ‘tong…,” Duterte said. He was reading his so-called “narco-list.”
Duterte described Antiporda as “big time pusher and member” of the “Antiporda drug group.”
It wasn’t clear who Duterte was referring to as there are 3 “Licerios” on the famous political clan in Cagayan.
The Antipordas have held power in Buguey for decades now. Antiporda’s brother, Lloyd, is currently serving as mayor of the town.
In a text message to The Northern Forum, Mayor Lloyd Antiporda said they will issue a statement today regarding Duterte’s accusations.
Earlier, the municipal government of Buguey had called a press conference saying the anti-illegal drug campaign is a top priority. -Northernforum.net
Editor’s Note: In a previous version, this story reported that President Duterte mentioned “Licerio Antiporda III” as member of the Antiporda drug group. We apologize. Duterte did not specifically named former barangay captain and mayor Licerio III. He only named a certain “Licerio Antiporda.”
