LINGAYEN— Undersecretary Antonio Villar Jr., head of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG) who has been besieged by a series of smear campaign, has staunch supporters in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP).

The 14 provincial board members unanimously approved on Monday a resolution citing Villar’s invaluable role and accomplishments as PASG chief.

“Undersecretary Villar is known to be a man of principle, and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of  Pangasinan and all Pangasinenses recognize his untainted reputation as a public servant   and his commitment in carrying out his assigned tasks and responsibilities as head of PASG is worthy of commendation,” the resolution said.

Text messages discrediting PASG by accusing it of extortion activities circulated anew last week.

Villar, who hails from Sto. Tomas and previously served as the town’s mayor, challenged those behind the black propaganda to come out in the open.

He had indicated that he is even ready to accompany his detractors to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for the opportunity to inform the latter of their accusations against him and the PASG.

Through the National Telecommunications Commission and other government agencies’ efforts, Villar said a group of smugglers has been identified to be behind the series of text messages circulated, all besmirching his integrity.

Villar also figured recently in a word war with Edu Manzano, head of the Optical Media Board, over the missing replicating machines for DVDs seized from arrested suspects.

“I find it unfair that some people are trying to besmirch his reputation we should rally behind him,” said Second District Board Member Von Mark Mendoza.#

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