Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro clarified that she did not apply for the position of Secretary of Justice, following remarks by Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist Rep. Leila de Lima, who named her as the “best choice” for the post.
The position became vacant after Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla was appointed as the new Ombudsman.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, November 4, Castro addressed the rumors and criticisms, assuring the public that she had no intention of seeking the role.
“Maraming salamat sa pagkokonsidera sa akin pero hindi po talaga po tayo nag-aapply para maging SOJ (Secretary of Justice),” she said.
“So siguro yung mga ayaw sa akin na maging SOJ ako eh, kalma lang, hindi po tayo nag-aapply para diyan,” Castro added.
Despite this, she thanked de Lima for her kind words, acknowledging the former Justice Secretary’s statement of support.
De Lima previously served as DOJ chief from 2010 to 2015 under the administration of the late President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.