NFA Council names OIC

MANILA, Philippines – The National Food Authority (NFA) Council has tapped the NFA Assistant Administrator for Finance and Administration as the officer-in-charge of the agency following the resignation of Administrator Arthur Juan.

Efren Sabong, a lawyer, holds a Career Executive Officer V (CESO) rank in government. 

Prior to his latest designation, which was announced on Tuesday, October 1, Sabong chaired the NFA special bids and awards committee and was assistant administrator of the NFA’s finance and administration division.

He has served the NFA in various capacities in the central and field offices since 1986.

Juan tendered his irrevocable resignation on September 25, which was accepted the following day. He cited “failing health” as the primary reason for his decision which  he made amid allegations of extortion by a rice trader.

Juan and his assistant, lawyer Patricia Galang, had tendered their courtesy resignation on August 15, over extortion allegations made by rice trader Jomerito “Jojo” Soliman. Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan had rejected it, believing in their innocence.

Soliman alleged that the two had tried to extort P15 million ($337,000*) from him in exchange for dropping charges against the businessman and reopening his warehouse which was raided by authorities led by Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II in July for alleged violations.

Juan and Galang have repeatedly denied the allegations. – Rappler.com

 *$1 = P44.8