Metro Manila, Philippines — Senator Grace Poe denied rumors on Thursday that she will replace Alfredo Pascual as trade secretary.
In a text message to reporters, Poe said no one has approached her to replace Pascual, and that she wants to focus on her Senate work.
“Napakahalaga na ang mga pondong ilalaan sa susunod na taon ay tunay na makakatulong pagaanin ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan at hindi mawawaldas o masasayang ang kaban ng bayan,” Poe, who chairs the finance committee, said.
[Translation: It’s very important that the funds we will allocate next year would help alleviate the lives of our citizens, and will not be wasted for nothing.]
Poe did not directly say if she’s open to accept the Cabinet position.
“Sa anumang paraan ako makakatulong ay pribelehiyo pero nais kong tutukan ang trabaho ko sa Senado,” she said.
[Translation: It’s a privilege to help in any way, but I want to focus on my work in the Senate]
The Presidential Communications Office said the resignation of Pascual, who is transitioning back to the private sector, will take effect on Aug. 2.
Other high-level officials who have resigned from the Cabinet were:
+ Vice President Sara Duterte as education secretary effective July 19 over a few differences with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.;
+ Marcos’ campaign manager Vic Rodriguez as executive secretary to spend more time with his family;
+ and Trixie Cruz-Angeles as press secretary for health reasons.
NewsWatch Plus Correspondent Lance Mejico contributed to this report.
