MANILA, Philippines - A Palace official stayed mum on the rumored transfer of Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras to Malacañang.
After all, the position that Almendras is supposed to take over--the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) top post--is not yet vacant, according to Deputy Palace Spokesperson Abigail Valte.
"The position is not vacant because (PMS) Secretary Julia Abad is there. But I really have no information to that effect," Valte replied when asked about the supposed "transfer" in a press briefing Sunday, June 10.
"I was actually quite surprised that to see it in the Philippine Star the other day. Wala pa naman pong nai-a-advise sa aming ganoon si Pangulong Aquino. (The President has not advised us)," she added.
On Saturday, June 9, the Philippine Star said Almendras will be taking over the post of Abad who is reportedly joining her reportedly Washington-bound husband.
The PMS reviews the projects of the Office of the President before they reach Aquino’s table. - Rappler.com