By Lilybeth Ison/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol on Wednesday dismissed rumors that he has resigned from his post.
Piñol, in a press briefing, also shrugged off the supposed “joke” of President Rodrigo Duterte during an event in Palawan last week that he (Duterte) wants him out of his Cabinet.
“I don’t own this position. If the President feels that he is not happy with my performance, I go and I will not feel bad, he said.
“I’ve done my best, but if the basis for my resignation is the joke of the President, I’ve heard that 20 times, whether in my presence, or in my absence. I’ve known this guy for the last 25 years, if you don’t know him well, you will be offended. Well of course it’s not comfortable to hear… but unless he calls me and tell me that he no longer needs my services, I will go,” he said.
For the past 25 years, Piñol said: “Hindi ako nangurakot sa posisyon ko (I have never been corrupt) in my position. I would feel that if he (Duterte) feels that he doesn’t need me anymore, patatawag niya ako (he will summon me).”
The DA chief has been placed under the microscope over the agriculture sector’s 0.1 percent contribution to the country’s overall gross domestic product growth in 2018.
“I can humbly say that while I may not have done so much as expected by some sectors, I have maintained a frugal life and resisted temptations. I am working and I will continue to serve the President and the Filipino farmers and fishermen. I’m just doing my job,” he said.
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