NBI chief Jaime Santiago resigns - Palace

Metro Manila, Philippines - National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago has resigned, the Palace said.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed this on Saturday, Aug. 16, saying President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has no comment on the resignation for now.

In a letter dated Aug. 15, Santiago said “detractors and those who have sinister interest in my position incessantly make moves to besmirch my reputation,” according to a report of state-run Philippine News Agency.

He said he tendered his “irrevocable resignation” effective upon the appointment of a replacement.

Santiago was appointed NBI director in June 2024. He was a retired judge, former police officer, and lawyer.

In a statement, Sen. Win Gatchalian said Santiago’s resignation was a “significant loss to the government.”

“His leadership was a cornerstone of our crime-busting efforts, and he was also instrumental in our campaign against criminal syndicates behind POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators),” he said.