Almendras: I’m staying as Energy chief but…

Rappler.com

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'I have no qualms about staying nor do I have qualms about going. There are rumors that I am being demoted. I have no problem with that. It really is up to the Malacañang team'

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras dismissed rumors about his supposed impending transfer to Malacañang, saying there have only been informal talks among the Aquino administration officials about this “possibility.”

He also stressed that a stable leadership at the energy department is key in serving the long-term power needs of the country, but added that he will abide by what President Aquino decides on.   

“There is no official announcement [of the reported transfer]. I have not been officially advised or informed of being transferred,” said Almendras at a press conference on June 15.

But he admitted, “If you ask me if there have been any formal or informal talks, I will not deny that there have been informal discussions on whatever options or possibilities (there are) at this time.”

Rumors of Almendras’ transfer to Malacañang have been persistent. The latest was about his taking over the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) post from Julia Abad who was reportedly joining her Washington-bound husband.

Asked about what other positions the President had discussed with him, Almendras said, “I don’t think it’s proper that the President offers me options at this time. To tell you the truth, this President is very decisive, he will make the decision, as time and again every cabinet member has come to experience.”

“There have been discussions for over a year. The President is like the CEO of a company… this is really the prerogative of the president… I will not stay one minute longer in the job than what he [wants],” said Almendras.

He reiterated, “I serve at the pleasure of the President.”

“I have no qualms about staying nor do I have qualms about going. There are rumors that I am being demoted. I have no problem with that. It really is up to the Malacañang team… I can’t even confirm that there will be any changes. I have not been formally advised there will be any changes,” said the DOE chief. – Rappler.com

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