Padilla’s resignation as gov’t chief negotiator not yet official

MANILA, Philippines – Newly-appointed Philhealth president and CEO Alex Padilla said Tuesday, June 25, he has notified Peace Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Deles of his intention to resign as government chief negotiator to focus “full-time” on his new role. 

But his resignation will only be formalized once the government peace panel negotiating with the communist rebels completes its transition plan, Padilla said. 

“I have notified Secetary Deles, awaiting formality,” he told reporters. 

Padilla has made no secret of his frustration and disappointment over the talks with the National Democratic Front. In an interview with Rappler shortly after his appointment as Philhealth CEO, Padilla said he is “ready to move on.” 

(READ: Gov’t peace panel head wants out)

Deles said Padilla’s appointment to the Philhealth did not come as a surprise.  

“We have agreed that he will stay on to ensure a smooth transition,” Deles said. “The rest of the panel remain in place and the work continues to proceed.” 

Peace talks between the government and the NDF are presently at a deadlock. 

(READ: Joma wants peace, the ‘ground doesn’t – Padilla)

In December 2012, NDF chairman Jose Maria Sison proposed a “special track” for the talks. But Sison backtracked from his proposal and insisted that the panel return to the “original track” of the negotiations. The government rejected the NDF’s proposal, resulting in an impasse.

Despite the stalemate, Padilla said the government has not closed its doors on the peace talks. – Angela Casauay/Rappler.com