Manila: Palace Press Officer Claire Castro expressed gratitude towards Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima for acknowledging her potential to lead the Department of Justice (DOJ), but clarified she has no intention of pursuing the position.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a Palace press briefing, Castro was appreciative of de Lima’s ‘kind words,’ which depicted her as ‘one of the best choices’ for the DOJ. Despite the flattering remarks, Castro reiterated that she is not interested in the post. She stated, ‘Maraming salamat sa pagku-konsidera sa akin pero hindi po talaga tayo naga-apply para maging SOJ (Thank you very much for considering me, but I am not actually applying to be [Secretary of Justice]).’

Castro, who is a lawyer by profession, indicated her preference to continue in her current role in communications at the Palace, rather than shifting to the legal and administrative duties associated with the DOJ. The Department of Justice has been involved in several high-profile cases, including ongoing investigations into corruption, making the role pivotal in the administration’s agenda.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently appointed Fredderick Vida as the acting DOJ secretary, following the appointment of Jesus Crispin Remulla as the new Ombudsman.