Justice Sec Remulla won't appoint NBI OIC after Santiago's resignation

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated on Monday that he would not appoint anyone as officer-in-charge (OIC) of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) following Director Jaime Santiago's resignation.

Santiago clarified that he will remain in his position until a successor is appointed, and Remulla said he respects this request.

In an interview, Remulla said there were no threats against Santiago but acknowledged that Santiago felt uncomfortable in his role due to detractors.

Last week, Santiago submitted an irrevocable resignation letter citing efforts by some individuals to tarnish his reputation.

The Department of Justice had previously endorsed Jesse Andres as acting director and Eliseo Cruz as acting OIC, but Remulla now says these appointments are no longer necessary given Santiago's decision to remain in office temporarily.