Exec willing to face NBI's charges

CEBU, Philippines – Talisay City Association of Barangay Councils President Raul Cabañero said he is willing face charges of obstruction of justice, violation of Revised Penal Code and illegal gambling filed by the National Bureau of Investigation against him before the Talisay City Prosecutor's Office.

"Wala ko'y plano to file counter-charges against them. Adto lang unya nako tubagon sa korte ang tanan nilang kasong gipasaka batok nako," Cabañero told reporters after the session yesterday.

The controversial councilor has filed a weeklong leave of absence at the City Hall.

Last November 8, Cabañero was arrested by the NBI for his alleged refusal to act as a witness in the inventory of seized illegal drugs when authorities conducted a raid in his area.

The incident took place when the NBI arrested 11 people at an alleged drug den in Barangay Bulacao and seized 219 sachets of suspected shabu.

Under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002, the presence of an elected public official is required during the conduct of a raid.

Reportedly, Cabañero declined to act as witness of the inventory as he was busy playing mahjong in the neighboring store near the barangay hall.

"Everybody has their own leisure time. Kinsa man ang magtuo nga naay raid mahitabo atong panahona nga Sabado man? The scene was 300 to 500 meters away from the barangay. That leisure turns out to be a nightmare," he added.

Charges against the official was filed in relation to Article 233 of the Revised Penal Code which provides that a public officer  "who, upon demand from competent authority, shall fail to lend his cooperation towards the administration of justice or other public service" will be penalized.

Cabañero posted his bail last November 10 before the prosecutor's office.

Cabañero admitted that drug problem is present in his barangay but he said it does not mean they are not doing anything about it.

"Tinuod mi-exist ang drugs sa among barangay pero dili ko drug protector," he said.