Despite Bikoy’s lack of credibility, his claims still useful for further probe – Eleazar

May 26, 2019

National Capital Region Police Office chief Major General Guillermo Eleazar on Sunday said the statement of Peter Joemel Advincula, who claimed to be “Bikoy,” could still be used to pursue further investigation despite his lack of credibility.

Eleazar said they were all shocked when Advincula retracted his earlier accusation contained in the "Ang Totoong Narco List" videos that President Rodrigo Duterte, some of his family members, and close aide were involved in illegal drugs.

“If you saw us at the back, we were all shocked,” he said in a radio interview.

“If what he said were false (accusations), it is possible that we can still get something from there to start the investigation,” said Eleazar.

The NCRPO chief said Advincula's claims on whether the one who ordered him to do the videos were from the administration or from the opposition could still help them to determine who were the persons behind his actions.

During a press briefing at Camp Crame last Thursday, Advincula named some opposition senators who promised to pay him P500,000 in exchange of making up a story against the President.

“What we want here is to find out who is the person behind his lies,” Eleazar said.

He also defended the Philippine National Police amid criticisms over its move to allow Advincula in front of the media. He said that all the suspects during press conferences were given a chance to speak to the members of the press.

“Being presented to the media is expected. Those suspects who are not familiar (to the public) are being presented through regular press briefings. So, of course, we presented him since he's been on the news for quite a while because of his statements or his claim of being Bikoy,” said Eleazar.

Advincula surrendered to the Northern Police District last Wednesday and was released on Saturday after posting bail.

PNP spokesperson Colonel Bernard Banac said Advincula did not request security from them. Ella Dionisio/DMS