Noy accepts Kiko resignation

MANILA, Philippines - Food security chief Francis Pangilinan has resigned from his post to prepare for his bid for the Senate in 2016.

President Aquino accepted Pangilinan’s resignation as presidential assistant for food security and agricultural modernization effective Sept. 30, Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. of the Presidential Communications Operations Office said yesterday.

“The President expressed his appreciation to Secretary Pangilinan for his contribution to the government and wished him the best in his future endeavors,” Coloma said.

Pangilinan told reporters he submitted his letter of resignation last week and that he met with the President to discuss his decision.

“Regarding my future plans, the official announcement will come in due time,” he said in a text message.

In a letter dated Sept. 8, Pangilinan expressed gratitude to the President for his trust, confidence and support.

“The support extended by the President and the Cabinet has been crucial in addressing the challenges in the agriculture department and the government’s vision of good governance and inclusive growth,” he said.

Pangilinan was appointed food security chief in May 2014.

With his appointment, several attached agencies of the Department of Agriculture (DA) were placed directly under his supervision. These are the National Food Authority (NFA), National Irrigation Administration, Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority.

Coloma said there was no word yet as to who would replace Pangilinan or if the agencies under his supervision would be turned over again to Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala.

Coloma said the government’s preparations for the El Niño phenomenon would not be affected by Pangilinan’s resignation since a Cabinet committee had been working on an action plan to address the matter.

National Economic and Development Authority director general Arsenio Balisacan had been tasked to convene the Food Security Council, which would meet today to discuss the action plan.