Editorial: A change in political landscape

THE arrest last week of Misamis Oriental Provincial Board Member Geodiguil Ursal has somehow tainted the political landscape of not only the province but also the city of Cagayan de Oro and perhaps, the whole Region 10.

Ursal was arrested by operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Agusan. Several sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu were confiscated from his possession including several drugs paraphernalia.

He refused to talk to the media but during investigation, operatives found out that he is not only selling drugs but uses it as well.

PDEA Regional Director Roberto Opeña said Ursal admitted he uses drugs even before he attends the weekly session of the Provincial Board where he sits as incumbent member.

Though he is yet to be tried in court, Ursal’s arrest has somehow put the political landscape in a “dark situation” as there could have been more politicians like him in Northern Mindanao who are into drugs.

According to PDEA, they are now monitoring other big personalities in the region who are suspected to have been involved in the illegal drugs trade.

In several interviews, Opeña said Ursal’s case falls under narco-politics and that PDEA is now monitoring other politicians who are suspected to be involved in similar illegal business.

We just hope PDEA would be successful in getting after these “big personalities” especially since the May midterm elections is just a few months away.