Lopez not on Rody’s reappointment list
MANILA, Philippines – Environment Secretary Gina Lopez was mum about her reported exclusion from President Duterte’s reappointments submitted to the Commission on Appointments (CA) for confirmation.
Lopez reported for work yesterday as the department’s Public Information Office (PIO) said she did not have any statement on the issue and continued to attend to matters requiring her attention.
The PIO said Lopez had meetings scheduled.
Isabela Rep. Rodolfo Albano III, who is CA majority leader, said Lopez’s absence in the list of 15 Cabinet members resubmitted to the body “means that she was not reappointed.”
“The President can still issue her a new appointment, but that will be a regular and not an ad interim appointment, since Congress is already in session. That means that she cannot assume office until the CA confirms her,” Albano said.
Lopez has launched a crusade against destructive mining operations in the country and has ordered the closure of some firms for alleged violations of law.
Lopez was among 15 Cabinet officials bypassed by the CA last month, which happens when Congress adjourns session or goes on recess without the CA approving the appointments.
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