No private armies in Zambales – Gov. Deloso

IBA, ZAMBALES – “I never had a private army in my life and I never will.”

This was the statement made by Zambales Governor Amor Deloso after news reports surfaced that the provincial chief has at least 40 armed men with high-powered rifles.

“There is no truth in the demolition job that my opponents are telling the media. What I do have is nine regular policemen who are part of my contingents,” Deloso added.

“You only develop private armies if you do illegal works,” he said.

According to reports from national dailies, particularly tabloids, Deloso’s name is synonymous to the Ampatuan’s of Maguindanao.

The reports stated that Deloso has been creating his own dynasty in Zambales and will be using his influence on family members to protect their alleged “illegal” mining businesses.

“Let them trace my so-called private army so they would know the truth. I have nothing to hide and I am the most approachable official in Zambales,” Deloso said.

Deloso said that this latest hit by his enemies is just part of a smear campaign.

He also reiterated that it wasn’t their family that started the political dynasty in Zambales, pointing out that the Magsaysays during their heydays held several positions in the country including the highest position, the presidency.

“Why now? Why our family?” he asked.

The governor also pointed out that Jury Deloso is certainly not his running mate but Saturnino Bactad, adding that his nephew Jury is actually the running mate of former Public Works and Highways secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr.

“I have not led this province through fear but more of love and compassion, heck, I’m the only governor whom you can joke and ask favors for!” Deloso jokingly said.

The governor has been casual with the allegations being hurled at him, stating that this is just the first round of the election bout here in Zambales.

Deloso said the recent barrage of allegations being thrown at the governor is part of a machination to smear him. By JONAS REYES - Manila Bulletin