Rodriguez squelches resignation rumors: ‘I’m still here’
Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez denied reports that he has resigned from the Cabinet of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. last night, saying he had no idea where the rumors originated.
Rodriguez said this after reports on social media that circulated on Friday, July 22, claiming that he decided to withdraw from his post due to several allegations.
In an interview with Malacañang reporters, the long-time Marcos spokesman said he was baffled when he received messages asking him if the online reports about his supposed resignation were accurate.
“Even the messages I got this morning, essentially what they said I have resigned. But as you know, you made this courtesy call; I’m still here in my office,” he told the Malacañang Press Corps (MPC).
“I’m just here. I hardly go out of my office. I don’t know how the rumor started,” he added.
UPDATE: Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez denies report that he has resigned from the Marcos Cabinet. “I’m still here in my office… I hardly go out of my office. I don’t know how the rumor started.” (MPC Pool) @manilabulletin pic.twitter.com/C2tylMQJBA
— Argyll Cyrus Geducos (@argyllcyrus_MB) July 22, 2022
Rodriguez denied allegations that he was asking P100 million for those who wanted to be part of the Marcos government.
“The amount is fantastic— demanded by whom from whom?” he said.
He likewise belied claims about his ties with a religious group.
“I think it’s unfair for our friends and members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo to be dragged into, again, chismis (rumors),” Rodriguez said.
Meanwhile, Rodriguez said he would only resign for health and family reasons.
“I don’t want to think about it but, of course, for health reasons; of course, family reasons,” he said.
“I don’t want to think about those reasons because I do not want to get sick. I don’t think anyone of us here would want to get sick. The moment you cite that as a reason to your employer, something must be seriously wrong with your health,” he added.
Despite this, Rodriguez said he knew his post in the Marcos Cabinet was not permanent.
“The moment you said ‘yes,’ automatic na rin na tinanggap mo na rin na (it’s clear that you know that) anytime you will be asked to leave,” he said.
“But until that happens, then you stay,” he added.
“Malinaw dito sa (It’s clear with the) present administration— all those serving under President Marcos that the moment the President asked you to serve under his leadership, it goes without saying that there is no permanence,” he continued.
Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles, in a text message, also denied that Rodriguez decided to leave the Marcos Cabinet.