Photo credit: Congress PH

Police Colonel Jovie Espenido recently clarified that he lacks any direct knowledge of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s involvement in the Duterte administration’s controversial war on drugs. Speaking before the House of Representatives' Quad Committee, Espenido submitted an affidavit where Go’s name was mentioned in connection with funds from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

In his statement, Espenido mentioned that POGO funds were allegedly channeled to incentivize police officials who participated in the drug war. However, he admitted that any information he had on Go’s involvement came from former Mayor Navarro, making his claims indirect and unsupported by personal experience.

Senator Go quickly dismissed the allegations as “purely hearsay,” emphasizing that Espenido’s affidavit was baseless. “You lied in your affidavit,” Go countered, standing firm on his denial.

Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa also weighed in, suggesting that Espenido’s inclusion of Go’s name was “in aid of persecution,” implying that such claims could be politically motivated. Echoing this, Go condemned the affidavit as both “malicious and slanderous,” asserting, “Huwag na sana nilang piliting iugnay sa akin ang mga bagay na walang katotohanan. Malisyoso ito at mapanirang puri.”

To protect his reputation, Go stated he would not hesitate to pursue legal action against anyone who links him to unproven accusations. The Senator’s response underscored his resolve to distance himself from any unfounded claims connected to the drug war.