Albayalde reiterates arrest of Ladlad due to illegal possession of firearms

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Albayalde on Sunday reiterated that the arrest of National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) consultant Vicente Ladlad was due to his violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition.

“We reiterate that the arrest of Communist Party of the Philippines Central Committee Member and Head of its National United Front Commission Vicente Ladlad is for violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition,” Albayalde said in a statement.

“The confiscation of high-powered firearms and explosives in the possession of Ladlad and two others is a result of a lawful search made by the police witnessed and certified by officials of the Homeowners Association,” he also said.

Ladlad was arrested on Thursday with two others in Novaliches, Quezon City.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) secretary general Renato Reyes on Thursday said Ladlad's arrest was again an attack against the suspended peace negotiations between the government and communist groups. 

On Saturday, Ladlad’s wife, Fides Lim-Ladlad, who was blocked by police when she attempted to force her way to see her detained husband, apologized to Albayalde. 

Albayalde said that, as a Christian, he is inclined to accept her apology, saying that he understands the concern of a wife for her husband.

“I understand her deep concern for the well-being of her husband and as a Christian I am inclined to graciously accept her apology,” he said.

However, Albayalde said that violation of laws has its consequences.

He also vowed that the PNP will uphold the rights and dignity of Ladlad while handling his case.

“Rest assured we are conscientious in observing our mandate to serve and protect, as well as to uphold human rights and dignity of the accused,” he said. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News