Newly appointed National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag on Monday, February 23, pledged to strengthen the bureau’s integrity, intensify its fight against criminality, and uphold public interest.
During the turnover ceremony at NBI headquarters, Matibag outlined his priorities in line with the directives of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who appointed him to the post.
He succeeded former acting director Angelito Magno, now Assistant Director for Legal.
“Alam ko po na I am filling big shoes. Alam ko po ang mga nagawa ni Direktor Lito Magno sa loob ng kanyang panunungkulan. Maiksi lang pero alam ko po nag-iwan ng magandang legasiya,” Matibag said, acknowledging his predecessor’s contributions.
Magno expressed confidence in Matibag’s leadership.
“Director Matibag will not only sustain what we have begun but elevate it further considering his vast experience in managing different institutions,” he said, while thanking Marcos for the opportunity to serve as acting director.
After the ceremony, Matibag paid a courtesy call on Justice Acting Secretary Fredderick Vida.
Matibag, who previously served as a Cabinet secretary under former President Rodrigo Duterte and as secretary general of PDP-Laban, assured impartiality in the bureau’s work, emphasizing transparency in investigations.
“We will be very transparent so no one will think we are siding with anyone,” he said.