Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
De La Salle guard Ricci Rivero vehemently denied rumors that he’s used drugs of any kind in connection to his departure from the Green Archers in February along with older brother Prince and Brent Paraiso.
In an effort to clear his name, Rivero posted a copy of results of the drug test Ohio-based laboratory Omega Laboratories conducted from late January to early February which stated that he tested negative for traces of methamphetamine, ecstasy, cocaine, opiates, and other related substances.
Its been a while, once and for all allow me to open my heart to answer your questions. May God bless us all. Thank You po. pic.twitter.com/2ykpNZzLQA
— Ricci Rivero (@RicciRivero06) March 7, 2018
In a lengthy essay Rivero posted on his Twitter account Wednesday, he said he waited for the right time to address the talks about his use of illegal substance and “lewd rumor” of involvement with gay benefactors.
“I am aware of all the rumors and speculations circulating on social media and all those who personally expressed their concern to us from inside and outside the community—buzzes about alleged drug usage and alleged acceptance of money from gay benefactors,” wrote Rivero.
“I remained mum about it not until I saw the need to speak up and defend ourselves once and for all.”
“I am negative to all types of substance contrary to initial reports that I was tested positive for drugs.”
Rivero said he handed his hair follicle samples last January 28 to Hi-Precision Diagnostics Center which were transferred to Omega Laboratories for the testing.
It was revealed back on Feb. 2 that Rivero went on an indefinite leave from the Green Archers due violation of certain university policies wherein players are prohibited to enter into sponsorship agreements, according to a statement from the school.
Rivero insisted in the letter that his leave of absence was about “honoring my commitments and respecting the new team rules.”
He also said he was left with “no choice” but to leave the team.
The younger Rivero also blasted those who started the rumor that he was accepting money from gay sponsors.
“As for the lewd rumor, please do not disrespect the hard work of my parents to provide for me and my siblings. I simply accepting money is an insult—that is foul.”