Word around the grapevine is that a self-proclaimed “Mr. Clean” has been spotted clinking glasses — not just with mayors and diplomats — but allegedly with fugitive ex-BuCor chief Gerald Bantag, the main suspect in the killing of broadcast journalist Percy Lapid.
While the rumor remains unconfirmed, it’s enough to raise eyebrows among fellow officials who once hailed this local executive as an anti-corruption crusader. These days, the same people are quietly asking: Crusader for truth, or drinking buddy to the accused?
Clue: He never misses a chance to preach about transparency and good governance — on TV, social media, and even mid-toast. As one mayor dryly noted, “He fights corruption — but only after the wine is poured.”
Once rumored to be angling for a post in the administration’s integrity body investigating ghost infrastructure projects, he seemed thrilled at the prospect — until whispers of his own questionable ties began circulating. Before he could be officially dropped, he “resigned” for what he claimed were “personal reasons.” Insiders, however, call it a preemptive face-saving maneuver.
The irony runs deep. His local government unit isn’t exactly free of “flooding” — literal or otherwise — and his old public statements keep coming back to haunt him. Case in point: that bizarre interview where he claimed nuns supported Duterte, the same leader who deported Australian missionary Sister Patricia Fox despite international outrage.
Now, as talk spreads about his cozy connections and liquid courage, his carefully polished image is cracking. The “Mr. Clean” label that once drew applause now draws smirks.
As one diplomat reportedly quipped, “He’s not leading a crusade — just another happy hour.”