MANILA, Philippines — Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said obstructionists were disappointed after newly appointed Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Lino Cayetano called her a “treasure” and announced that she would stay in her position.
In a radio interview, Castro noted that critics "collapsed" after Cayetano announced that she remained the palace press officer.
"I told Secretary Lino, there are many bashers, obstructionists, and destabilizers and they seem to be happy, like they are in heaven, and all of a sudden you called me a treasure; they might suddenly collapse," Castro said in Filipino.
On Friday, Cayetano announced that all directors and undersecretaries under the PCO submitted their courtesy resignation to allow for a comprehensive evaluation of the agency.
He noted, however, that Castro remained the palace press officer, calling her a “treasure” of the agency.
Despite submitting her courtesy resignation, Castro emphasized that she was ready to step down if it served the administration's goals.
"If that's the right thing to do, and if they will replace me with someone who is more effective in publicizing the truth and programs of the president, that's what we will accept," she said.
"It's a good thing that I'm still here to announce the presidential programs. For those who don't want to, they will be sad," she added.
