Singson posts bail in HK drug raps

MANILA, Philippines – Ilocos Sur Representative Ronald Singson was allowed to post bail Thursday by a Hong Kong court hearing the drug trafficking case against him.

Marikina Representative Romero Federico Quimbo, a member of a team sent by the House of Representatives to monitor Singson’s case, said the Ilocos solon was allowed to post bail of HK $1-million.

The surety bond was paid by “friends” of Singson, including Hong Kong residents, who will also take custody of the lawmaker.

Singson is not allowed to leave Hong Kong and is required to report to a police station every day.

His father, Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, and reported girlfriend, actress Lovi Poe, attended the hearing.

Singson’s arraignment is scheduled on September 7.

Quimbo said he will submit a report to Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. “relative to the actions of the Hong Kong on the case and on the part of the House, decide whether to submit the matter to the ethics committee.”

“The Speaker is very much concerned about the reputation of the House,” he added.

Belmonte said they would continue monitoring developments in the case.

Singson was arrested on July 11 and charged with trafficking in dangerous drugs pursuant to Hong Kong’s Dangerous Drug Ordinance before the Tsuen Wan Magistracy’s Courts.

Hong Kong authorities reportedly found cocaine and the sedative Valium on the lawmaker.

Singson appeared in court with his private counsel last July 22.