An executive assistant of Governor Joseph Marañon yesterday blamed "politics" for what he called a smear campaign against him.

Patrick Lacson, who is planning to run for board member in the 3rd district of Negros Occidental, denied reports that he went swimming with some women in a river in Murcia last week. He allegedly went to the area using a government vehicle.

He admitted that he went to Cansilayan and Brgy. Lopez Jaena in Murcia, to deliver five sacks of rice promised by Vice Governor Isidro Zayco to the barangay residents. He said he met a certain Resty Amit near a river in Brgy. Lopez Jaena, Murcia, whom he had been looking for and claims he has witnesses to disprove the allegations against him.

He also said the women seen with him were "hitch hikers" going to Brgy. Blumenttrit, Murcia.

Marañon said that if there is a formal complaint against Lacson, "I will let him answer it". He, however, said government vehicles being used for public service can be used in 24-hours work.*GPB

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