A CABINET member deemed invalid an order to release three drug suspects as it did not reach his approval.

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales, in the House probe on the drug bribery controversy involving the “Alabang Boys” Wednesday, said the order drafted to dismiss the case of Richard Brodett, Jorge Joseph and Joseph Tecson was not valid although chief state prosecutor Jovencito Zuño signed it.

Gonzales also said he has yet to study the document.

The draft order was allegedly sent by the Alabang boys' counsel Atty. Felisberto Verano to the office of Justice Undersecretary Ricardo Blancaflor.

Gonzales said he will dismiss the case after he has gone over the draft and made sure it is correct.

On September 20, 2008, Brodett, Joseph and Tecson, alleged drug dealers, were arrested in Alabang, Muntinlupa City and Quezon City.

The parents of the arrested three allegedly paid millions for the dismissal of the case and sparked a controversy with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency airing bribery allegations against the Department of Justice. (JLCP/Sunnex)