(Eagle News) — The Commission on Appointments on Wednesday rejected the appointment of Judy Taguiwalo as social welfare secretary.
The powerful commission made the announcement after a 30-minute executive session.
Davao Oriental Rep. Joel Mayo Almario, chair of the CA committee on labor, employment and social welfare, said a majority voted against Taguiwalo’s appointment.
At least 13 votes constitute a majority vote.
Earlier, Taguiwalo had expressed confidence her appointment would be approved, noting that she was a person of integrity.
In a press conference, Taguiwalo said she wore the rejection as a “badge of honor” considering that she was joining the likes of Gina Lopez, an anti-mining advocate who was also rejected by the CA for the position of environment secretary.
“Never kami naging corrupt. Nasa hanay ako ng mamamayan na tumindig…,” she said.
In a statement, Malacanang said it was “saddened” by Taguiwalo’s rejection, noting she had served the administration with “passion, professionalism and integrity.”
Taguiwalo is the third Cabinet official appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to be rejected by the powerful CA.
Apart from Lopez and Taguiwalo, Perfecto Yasay Jr. was rejected by the CA for the position of foreign affairs secretary. Meanne Corvera, Eagle News Service