Andanar: Abella remains in Duterte administration

MANILA, Philippines -- Outgoing Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella will stay in the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said on Friday.

In a radio interview, Andanar said that Abella "will have a place under the Duterte administration."

"Si Ernie will stay with the administration. Wherever he may be assigned by the President, it will be his prerogative," Andanar added in a mix of Filipino and English.

Duterte confirmed on the night of October 27 that Kabayan Rep. Harry Roque is his new spokesperson. The firebrand leader said that Roque, known for his acid-tongue, "fits" the position as they both have "playful mouths."

Duterte said that it was his "personal" decision to get Roque as the new face of the Malacañang. He however declined to elaborate on the rationale behind his decision.

Roque will officially assume the position vacated by Abella on November 6.

The solon also has yet to leave his post at the Congress as one of the representatives of the Kabayan party-list.

The soft-spoken former pastor served as Duterte's spokesperson on the first month of the new administration.

Abella, for his part, has earlier said in a statement that he believes Roque "will be more than adequate for the occasion and will deliver the right support needed for PRRD's program of government."