Embattled Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez has found an ally in Congress as a House leader appealed to his critics to “stop nitpicking at every move” of the Malacañang official.
Rep. Dan Fernandez of Laguna made the call as he defended Rodriguez from allegations in the media that he is supposed to be on his way out as executive secretary.
Fernandez, who was recently elected as chairman of the House public order and security committee, noted that critics have been watching nearly every move of Rodriguez in a bid to sow intrigue calculated at pressuring the official to step down.
“At first glance, one will find them amusing because nearly every body language, facial expression of Rodriguez is being reported to the media as sign of the supposed falling out between him and the president. But this must stop for the sake of our country” said Fernandez.
Recently, the media also surmised that Rodriguez’s non-inclusion in the Cabinet contingent that accompanied President Marcos in a visit to earthquake-devastated areas in Abra was indicative of the Executive Secretary’s dwindling clout in Malacañang.
“This logic is just absurd if not twisted. Like all executive secretaries in the past, Rodriguez has to stay put in Malacañang to take care of important matters needing urgent presidential attention,” Fernandez said.
“Who else must the President rely on to man the fort but the person who enjoys his utmost trust and confidence.”
Earlier, Magsasaka party- list Rep. Argel Cabatbat advised Rodriguez to watch his back as the lawmaker aired strong suspicions that the Malacañang official is the target of a current smear campaign launched from within the Marcos camp.
Rumors were also rife about Rodriguez’s supposed resignation from the Cabinet.
Cabatbat said the series of negative reports directed towards Rodriguez indicated a hatchet job aimed against him in a bid to pressure him to resign.
Cabatbat also appealed to critics of Marcos to observe the traditional 100-day ‘honeymoon’ period afforded a new government administration.
