MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Appointments (CA) bypassed Agrarian Reform Secretary John Castriciones yesterday for failing to satisfy several members of the body with his answers to various issues.
In his second hearing before the committee on agrarian reform of the CA, Castriciones once again faced questions about his qualifications being a lawyer with no apparent background in the field of agriculture or agrarian reform.
But Castriciones defended his appointment, saying he was from the agricultural province of Nueva Vizcaya and that he used to be part of the Biyayang Bukid party-list group.
He added that a lawyer is needed in the DAR because of the many legal cases that the agency handles with regard to land ownership disputes.
While Castriciones failed to get approval of some CA members, he received support from Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, Manila City Rep. Sandy Ocampo and CA majority leader Rodolfo Albano III of Isabela, who said he was the best man for the job.
Zubiri said there were members of the CA who asked for additional documents from Castriciones and so his appointment would have to be taken up again in May when Congress resumes session.
Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III said Castriciones is now considered bypassed since Congress has already adjourned.
However, he aired his confidence that President Duterte will extend the ad interim appointment of Castriciones during the break so he could remain at the helm of the DAR.