Malacañang: Who are we to stop Cardema from resigning?

MANILA — Malacañang on Monday said it could not stop National Youth Commission (NYC) chairperson Ronald Cardema from resigning if he chose to do so.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made this comment following controversy surrounding Cardema’s resignation as NYC chairperson to file a petition for substitution as first nominee of the Duterte Youth partylist.

“Well, as far as we’re concerned, he showed his disinterest in further serving the executive branch then who are we to stop him?” said Panelo in a Palace briefing.

Panelo said although Cardema did not seek permission before tendering his resignation, filing a certificate of candidacy or substitution already deemed him ipso facto resigned.

“Obviously, that is already, the intention is very clear, he wants to leave the government,” Panelo said.

“If the law says by filing a certificate of candidacy or substitution, you’re automatically resigned then you did not abandon in a way that means nag resign ka na talaga (you really resigned),” he added.

Panelo said he had no knowledge whether Cardema continued his duties and functions as NYC chair despite his resignation.

He earlier ordered Cardema to formally leave his post and turnover all official papers, documents, and properties in his possession to the Office of the President.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) earlier confirmed that Cardema’s petition for substitution was timely filed on May 12, a day before the midterm elections.