MANILA - One of the police officials identified by President Rodrigo Duterte as an alleged protector of drug syndicates strongly denied the accusation against him, claiming he himself is an anti-drug advocate.

Speaking to radio dzMM Tuesday, Chief Superintendent Bernardo Diaz stressed that he is also "angry" at illegal drugs, noting that three of his family members have been victims of illegal drugs.

He said he had a female cousin who was robbed and killed by a drug addict in Tondo, Manila back in 1995; a cousin who died due to use of illegal drugs in the 1980s; and a younger brother who had been brought to a rehabilitation center thrice.

"Kung meron man pong tao o meron man pong pulis na magagalit po sa ipinagbabawal na droga, siguro po ako na po yun," said Diaz.

He also pointed out that he was never appointed as regional director of Region 11.

"Meron pong pagkakamali sa impormasyon," Diaz said.

"Unang-una, hindi po ako naging regional director ng Region 11. Hindi po ako na-assign sa Davao simula po nang teniente ako hanggang ngayon," he said.

Diaz, former police director of Region 6 (Western Visayas), boasted that he was never involved in any illegal drug cases throughout his service.

He said he will report to PNP Chief, Director General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa first thing Wednesday to clear his name. He added he is ready to face any investigation and prove his innocence.

"Wala po akong reklamo o kaso. Since nung 2nd lieutenant pa ako hanggang ngayon, wala po akong naging kaso o reklamo po pertaining po sa illegal drugs," he said.

"Ngayong oras na ito, mas nag-aalala po ako sa akin pong nanay, sa aking mga kapatid, sa aking mga anak. Baka mamaya nakita nila ito. Sana naman po walang masama na mangyari sa kanila," he added.

"Pero alam naman po ng Diyos ang katotohanan."

READ: Duterte links 5 top cops to drug trade