House quad committee cites ex-PDEA chief for contempt, delays detention until Jan 13

Former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Wilkins Villanueva was cited for contempt by the House of Representatives quad committee on Thursday and ordered detained, with implementation delayed until January 13, 2025.

Abang Lingkod party-list Rep. Stephen Paduano accused Villanueva of lying and disrespecting the committee during the hearing focused on claims that Villanueva interrogated Jed Palapil Sy, wife of drug personality Allan Sy, around two decades ago.

Rep. Romeo Acop questioned Villanueva about command responsibility, noting PDEA records showing Mrs. Sy was detained twice in January 2005 following a December 2004 raid on a shabu lab.

Villanueva maintained his innocence, stating he does not recall arresting Sy but remembers her being questioned at the PDEA office after the raid.

The quad committee's decision to delay Villanueva's detention until January 13 was made 'in the spirit of Christmas.'

Jed confirmed knowing Chinese businessman Michael Yang as 'Hong Ming,' and Acierto’s report tagged Sy as potentially involved in drug activities, while Lascañas alleged DDS involvement.

Lawmakers are investigating non-police officials like Villanueva's potential involvement in killings before Duterte became president.