PNP denies lawyering for Julian Ongpin

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police yesterday assured the public and Bree Jonson’s family that the PNP remains impartial in its investigation into the death of the visual artist.

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar denied allegations that police are acting as “de facto” lawyers for Julian Ongpin, who is suspected of involvement in Jonson’s death since he was the last person seen with her in a room at a resort in San Juan, La Union on Sept. 18.

Eleazar made the statement after Jonson’s mother, Sally, said the police have been favoring the camp of Ongpin.

In an interview with The STAR during Jonson’s wake in Quezon City last week, Sally said she noticed that the police have been disclosing little information about the drug complaint filed against Ongpin.

“Reports quoting police statements are favorable to Julian. That’s my impression… I have a right to give my opinion because I’m the mother of the victim,” Sally said.

Eleazar said the PNP was merely giving updates on the case and not acting as spokesman for Ongpin.

“It’s difficult to give updates because it often gets misinterpreted. Again, I condole with the family and understand their feelings,” Eleazar said.

Eleazar maintained that police probers have not yet made any conclusions about the case.

It has been nearly two weeks since Jonson was found unconscious in a room she occupied with Ongpin in La Union.

Police filed charges of illegal drug possession against Ongpin after investigators allegedly found more than 12 grams of cocaine in the room.

Ongpin is the son of billionaire and former trade secretary Roberto Ongpin.

The Department of Justice placed Ongpin on the immigration lookout list after the Ilocos prosecutor’s office ordered his release pending preliminary investigation of the case.

Ongpin and Jonson both tested positive for cocaine use.

Jonson’s relatives believe that the cause of her death was not drug overdose.