The termination of Maj. Gen. Jesus Nelson Morales as Presidential Security Command (PSC) chief was a routine reassignment, Malacañang said Wednesday, downplaying speculation over the move.
In a Palace briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro clarified that Morales was not removed due to controversy but was instead being transferred to another duty.
“His command was terminated because he is being transferred to another duty,” Castro said. “That is the only information we can share regarding the PSC.”
The statement comes amid questions about whether Morales’ reassignment was linked to previous reports of Chinese spies allegedly monitoring presidential facilities.
Castro denied any connection, stating, “There was no mention of that. His command was simply considered terminated, and a replacement has been appointed.”
The Palace spokesperson also assured the public that the appointment of a new PSC commander followed all legal protocols and did not violate any election-related appointment bans.
“Based on the timeline, no policies, orders, or laws were violated,” she said.
Earlier, Malacañang confirmed reports that Philippine Army Brig. Gen. Peter Burgonio took over as the new PSC commander.