Ladlad’s arrest lawful, Albayalde insists

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Albayalde reiterated yesterday that the apprehension of National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) consultant Vicente Ladlad was mandated by law as the suspect’s wife apologized for obstructing justice during his arrest.

“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.

Ladlad was arrested on Thursday in Quezon City when police, implementing a search warrant, found a cache of firearms and explosives in his possession.

Ladlad’s wife, Fides, issued an apology to Albayalde for attempting to force her way into Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City where Ladlad had undergone booking procedures.

At one point, Albayalde said Fides blocked a police mobile as she expressed her strong intent to see her husband.

Due to the incident, Albayalde said they were studying the filing of charges, specifically for obstruction of justice, against Fides.

“I hope General Albayalde will find it in his heart to forgive me when his charming wife, Mrs. Albayalde, will also obstruct justice with her bare hands by blocking a police van because he’s imprisoned inside and she knows not where he will be brought, or what perchance will happen to him because of a state malady called evidencia plantida de pulis,” Fides said in a statement.

For his part, Albayalde said he understands Fides’ impulsive acts and accepts her apology. However, he hinted that the filing of case against Fides remains an option for them.

“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, I must reiterate we are a nation of laws not of men. And violations of laws has its consequences,” he added.