CL drug rehab center head cleared of raps

MAGALANG, Pampanga — The chairman of a foundation running the controversial Central Luzon Drug Rehabilitation Center (CLDRC) here has virtually cleared a senior police official of allegations that he had misused funds amounting to over P44 million.

"There are no missing funds, and the funds are duly accounted for," said Arayat Mayor Benigno Espino, chairman of the Sagip Bie Foundation Inc. (SBFI).

Espino issued the statement after he met with the SBFI board of trustees here amid the allegations against Senior Superintendent Conrado Briton, CLDRC executive director.

Espino said CLDRC accountant Jenny Martinez was able to fully account for all the center’s funds during the board meeting.

"We are issuing this statement to once and for all clarify the controversy (on the use of funds)," he said.

Meanwhile, Briton belied reports that Philippine National Police chief Director General Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. had relieved him from his post in the CLDRC. — With Ric Sapnu