NEWSFLASH

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BONG REVILLA FACES DRUG TRAFFICKING RAPS

Quezon City, Nov. 20, 1997 - Actor Bong Revilla, vice governor of Cavite, is not yet off the hook, despite having been cleared by Philippine National Police Chief Recaredo Sarmiento of any involvement in drug trafficking operations.

Local Government Secretary Robert Barbers yesterday ordered an investigation into Revilla's alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade after two persons claiming to be members of the Cavite Multi-Sectoral Anti-Drug Council were caught in a buy-bust police sting operation. Revilla is chairman of the anti-drug council.

Recovered from the two suspects was a large quantity of metamphetamine hydrochloride, known in the streets as shabu.

Barbers said his move seeks to shed light on the case and to find out the truth behind reports that Revilla is really involved in illicit drugs. He added that results of the investigation will be revealed soon.

Revilla claims the charges against him are politically inspired.

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