By Lito Rulona

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) yesterday said it has started tracking down Lynard Allan Bigcas’s contacts.

FROM SMUGGLING TO DRUGS? A wounded Lynard Allan Bigcas, who rose to national prominence because of his alleged links to smuggling of luxury cars from the US last year, at the PDEA headquarters in Cagayan de Oro following his arrest for possession of an unlicensed gun and substances suspected to be illegal drugs. (photo by Nitz Arancon)

PDEA regional director Roberto Opena said this a day after Bigcas, who rose to prominence last year after he was linked to smuggling of cars and motorcycles, bailed out.

Bigcas was charged with illegal arms and drug possession on Monday after spending the weekend in detention. He was arrested by PDEA agents after he allegedly took out a “baby Armalite” following a motorcycle crash near the Rodelsa Cirle last Saturday.

Authorities found a sachet of suspected shabu and other substances in the pick-up truck he was using that day.

Bigcas subsequently tested positive for drug use, said the PDEA.

Opena said Bigcas squealed and provided PDEA vital information about his contacts while he was in custody.

“He gave addresses and told us who his suppliers were,” he said.

Opena said the suspects were also supplying illegal drugs to prominent people in the city and in nearby towns.

Bigcas has admitted to reporters that he has long been using illegal drugs because of his stress and problems.

“I am trying to be a new person but bad influence hit me. I have no regrets when PDEA arrested me. I know it was God’s way for me to repent and change,” he said.

Bigcas said he was willing to undergo a rehabilitation program for the sake of his family and “the people of Talakag” where he plans to run for mayor next year.

“I am running for mayor. After my rehabilitation, it would be perfect for me and to the people of Talakag, Bukidnon. It will be a total change for me. I would like to be close to God and to my friends,” he said.

Bigcas was freed from PDEA’s detention after posting a P320-thousand bailbond on Monday afternoon.

Opena said Bigcas volunteered to submit to a rehabilitation program in Cebu City or Metro Manila.