By Agryll Cyrus Geducos
Malacañang said President Duterte does not have to explain to anybody why he decided to move Aaron Aquino from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) as appointments are the prerogative of the Chief Executive.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque
(Jansen Romero/ MANILA BULLETIN)
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque made the statement after it was confirmed on Wednesday that Duterte appointed Aquino as Member, Board of Directors, Clark International Airport Corporation with a nomination as President and CEO of CIAC on May 22.
"But General Aaron Aquino was simply given a new and more challenging position," he added.
Roque then welcomed new PDEA director-general Wilkins Villanueva to the government.
"We welcome the new director-general Wilkins Villanueva who also comes with impeccable credentials," he said.
"Aaron Aquino, whom the President replaced with Wilkins Villanueva as PDEA chief, is being transferred to another office. I believe the President thinks he is better suited to another post," he told ANC on Wednesday.
"I can assure you that this is not a case of loss of trust or confidence. He was given a new assignment," he added.
In a statement, Roque said the Palace was grateful for Aquino's "immense contribution to the Administration's campaign against illegal drugs."
He also believes that Villanueva will lead the drug war to greater heights.
"DG Villanueva is no stranger to drug law enforcement. He has been working with PDEA for many years before reaching the Agency's top position," he said.