Kiko Pangilinan resigns from Aquino Cabinet

Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan at the PCA’s Cocolisap Caravan at San Luis, Batangas. (Photo from Pangilinan’s official Twitter account)

MANILA – Former senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan sent a resignation letter to President Benigno Aquino III, quitting his position as the Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization.

Pangilinan submitted his resignation last week, and is effective September 30.

“The president expressed his sincerest appreciation to Secretary Pangilinan for his contribution to the government during his stint as PAFSAM and wished him the best in his future endeavors,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. told reporters.

According to Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte, the food security chief has been considering joining the senatorial race in next year’s general elections.

Pangilinan, for his part, disclosed that an official announcement regarding his plans will come in due time. He also thanked Aquino for entrusting him with the post.

“The support extended by His Excellency and the Cabinet has been crucial in addressing the challenges in the agriculture sector and the government’s vision of good governance and inclusive growth,” Pangilinan said.