Palace to Mabilog: It’s safe to come home

Malacañang has assured Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and his family of their safety upon their return to the country.

Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said there is no reason for Mabilog to be scared of going home.

“This is a pretty democratic country…as far as evidence shows… the rule of law prevails,” Abella said yesterday.

Mabilog, whom President Duterte accused of protecting drug lords, extended his leave of absence for 30 more days, citing threats to his life aside from his medical condition.

Mabilog has yet to return to the country after attending a disaster management summit in Japan from Aug. 30 to Sept. 4 and an urban environment accords forum in Malaysia from Sept. 7 to 9. His wife and kids have also left the country.

Mabilog’s spokesman Mark Piad said the mayor is suffering from diabetes and is not yet fit to return to work.

Piad said persistent allegations that the mayor is involved in the illegal drug trade is aggravating his condition.

However, Piad assured Mabilog’s constituents that the mayor would not resign and would return to work once his condition improves.

Waiting for Rody’s invitation

Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said yesterday he is willing to meet with the President to discuss the alleged drug links of Mabilog.

The President said he wants Drilon to join the police and military at a briefing to present evidence of Mabilog’s involvement in illegal drugs.

“Up to now I’ve not received any invitation from the President. I’ve always accepted his invitations. I’ve also attended official meetings at Malacañang,” Drilon told reporters.

While Mabilog is his relative, Drilon said he has not interfered in the affairs of the mayor. Drilon and Mabilog are second cousins.

Drilon has condemned the spate of extrajudicial killings in the country, which is believed to be triggered by the government’s war on drugs.