Businessman in ‘drug diagram’ surfaces

MANILA, Philippines - One of 12 civilians named in the diagram of slain Chief Inspector Elmer Santiago as behind the illegal drug trade and cybersex operations in Bataan surfaced Tuesday to deny involvement in the illegal activities.

Reynaldo “Kojie” Muli Jr., 35, said he is a legitimate businessman engaged in sawmill and trucking businesses.

Santiago was killed in an ambush in Mandaluyong City on April 16.

“We were close friends,” Muli told The STAR.

He said he decided to come out to air his side.

“I know that his family would get hurt of my revelations but I have to stand up to clear my name,” he said.

Muli, a former councilor of Dinalupihan town, said he is willing to face any inquiry by the National Bureau of Investigation or the Special Investigation Task Group Santiago.

Santiago also named 11 police officials and 22 enlisted personnel in his diagram. All the 33 policemen have been relieved from their posts.