I am writing regarding Conrado R. Banal III’s column, “Shape of things to Cam,” (Business, 1/18/18) particularly in paragraph 17 where my name was mentioned: “Reports said the group of Atong Ang operated openly in Pangasinan, with the provincial police (courtesy of Superintendent Ferdinand de Asis) naming his company, Meridien Vista Gaming [Corp.], as the leading operator.”
I vehemently deny giving such statement and I do not recall meeting with Banal nor have I given any interview to him. The said statement is baseless and unfounded as I have never released any statement concerning Small Town Lottery to him or to any member of the media in order for him to cite my name in the report.
I respectfully request issuance of an erratum on the said article for reason that I am not responsible of the statement quoted. At any rate, I encourage your support to the Philippine National Police, especially in our campaign against illegal gambling and report any legal activities through our PRO1 hotlines (072)-700-0518, (0917)8407783/(0920)9686779.
FERDINAND Z. DE ASIS, police superintendent, chief, RPIO, PRO1