OCD respects PRRD decision on exec’s relief

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on April 6, 2020. ACE MORANDANTE/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said it respects the decision of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to fire one of its officials.

“All of the President’s appointees serve at his pleasure.

OCD respects and submits to the decision of the President,” National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) spokesperson Mark Cashean Timbal said in a message to the Philippine News Agency on Friday.

The OCD is the executive arm of the NDRRMC and the implementer of its programs.

Duterte relieved OCD deputy administrator, Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima.

Timbal said he is still to see the former OCD official.

“I haven’t seen (him) yet,” Timbal said.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the President fired Purisima due to a “lack of trust and confidence”.