In a recent update on the case of Jason Dumlao, the 36-year-old apprehended in a buy-bust operation in Ilocos Norte, local radio host confirmed that Dumlao remains in custody at the Ilocos Norte city jail.

The arrest, which occurred on February 7, stirred significant public outcry after footage of the operation circulated online, revealing what some perceived as excessive force.

Dumlao, a resident of barangay Nalasin, Solsona, Ilocos Norte, was taken into custody following the buy bust operation and arrest.

Rolando Jose, a local anchor at the Laoag-based Aksyon Radio Laoag DZJC, addressed the situation on air, dispelling rumors that Dumlao had been released.

“Contrary to online rumors, Dumlao is still in Ilocos Norte provincial jail,” he told his listeners, citing personal knowledge from someone who interacted with Dumlao directly.

Furthermore, Jose disclosed that donations had poured in for Dumlao’s family, particularly for his youngest child who is hospitalized in the ICU with a severe medical condition.

“Many have contributed to the fundraising efforts, with donations exceeding P100,000,” Jose reported.

Additionally, he mentioned a lawyer’s offer to assist Dumlao pro bono, highlighting the community’s support amidst the legal proceedings.

“Adda nakasagana a tumulong kanyana, at no cost,” (someone is willing to help him legally at no cost), the radio host said.

Jose also addressed criticisms aimed at the radio station and his colleague regarding a “tattoo question” posed during the arrest.

He clarified that it was not a reporter from their station but rather a member of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) who inquired about Dumlao’s tattoos.

“We urge netizens to respect us,” Jose emphasized, urging civility in online discourse.

In a subsequent interview conducted by the local radio station on February 12, Dumlao himself clarified that it was indeed the PDEA who posed the controversial tattoo question, not their reporter Dulce Valenzuela.

“It was indeed the PDEA who asked me if I have a tattoo,” Dumlao said in Ilocano.

Aksyon Radio took to Facebook on February 8 to issue a statement, disassociating themselves from any discriminatory actions and reaffirming their respect for all individuals regardless of personal choices.

“Our station does not engage in any form of discrimination against individuals with tattoos,” the statement read.