The search is not yet over.
Malacañang said that President Duterte has not yet decided on who should be the next chairperson of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) but noted that the Chief Executive is aware of the importance of filling the vacant position soon.
Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles made the statement as the Comelec remained without a permanent chairperson and two commissioner spots are still vacant, months ahead of the May 2022 polls.
In his press briefing on Friday, February 18, Nograles said that the President is still going over the list of candidates.
"The President is still selecting from the list of candidates. May vetting process po 'yan (There is a vetting process)," he said.
"But, of course, the President knows the importance and urgency also of appointing these very important officials," he added.
Despite this, the acting Palace spokesman said that the announcement may come soon.
"Soon the President will make the appointment," Nograles ensured.
"Lalabas na rin 'yan gaya ng paglabas ng appointment ng bagong chair ng COA (Commission on Audit). Ganoon din, hintayin natin yung sa Comelec (The announcement will come out just like that of the new COA chairperson. Let's just wait for the appointment for the Comelec)," he added.
Nograles was referring to the recent appointment of Rizalina Justol as the new COA chairperson. Justol replaced Michael Aguinaldo who retired from the position early this month.
Three top poll officials left the Comelec early this month. Former Comelec Chair Sheriff Abas and former Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Antonio Kho Jr. all retired on February 2.
Before the retirement of the three, Nograles said that President Duterte already had a shortlist of candidates for their replacement, most especially the position of Comelec chairperson.