Vice President Jejomar C. Binay was saddened on the call of Malacanang for government officials said to be identified to him may resign from their post.
Joey Salgado, head of the Office of the Vice President Media Affairs, “such a pronouncement from Palace spokesmen only underscores the Vice President’s call for governance that puts merit on performance, excellence, and professionalism.”
Salgado said workforce of the housing agencies, formerly headed by Binay, includes professionals from the private sector who gave up high-paying positions and chose to serve in government.
“For five years they have labored quietly, instituting reforms in their agencies and fulfilling their mandate. Their accomplishments speak volumes,” said Salgado, in a statement.
“Yet they have been unjustly pilloried in the Senate hearings by their mere presence in agencies under the HUDCC. And now, the Palace itself has joined the inquisition,” he added.
He said that heads of housing agencies are presidential appointees. Some of the board members have fixed terms of office while some are co-terminus with the President.
“Vice President Binay made recommendations based on individual qualifications and willingness to serve in government. Yet, the Palace is again adding up the so-called favors given to the Vice President,” Salgado noted.
From raising the petty issue of Binay’s use of the Coconut Palace which he is renting, now the call of resignation of government officials in the housing agencies, said Salgado as slamming the administration.
“Apparently, the administration continues to put premium on political ties and loyalities rather than competence and professionalism,” he said.
MANILA BULLETIN
