Alvarez will be replaced, says Aquino

MANILA, Philippines—President Aquino confirmed on Monday that he will replace beleaguered Customs chief Angelito Alvarez but declined to say for now who the latter’s replacement was.

Aquino confirmed in a radio interview last Sunday but was only aired by a radio station on Monday that he was not satisfied with Alvarez’s performance and that he would be replaced. However, the President declined to name who will replace Alvarez saying only that the person had accepted his offer to head the BoC.

Meanwhile, Alvarez said he would start packing his bags at the BoC after Aquino confirmed that he would replace the BoC chief.

“I serve at the pleasure of the President. As a presidential appointee we are aware that we can be replaced anytime. I respect his decision. I will start packing my bags,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez said his detractors have succeeded in removing him from office.

Last week, reports came out that Alvarez resigned from office which he denied.

Alvarez said some lawmakers as well as smugglers affected by the BoC’s anti-smuggling campaign have called for his resignation.

While there has been no confirmation on who would replace him, Alvarez said whoever would take over his position must be prepared because “politics” existed even inside the BoC.

Alvarez added that he was happy to return to his private life and has not regretted accepting the BoC post.

Aquino said he had promised Alvarez’s replacement a “little space” and that was why he won’t identify the latter, who he said wanted to enjoy “the last days of quiet in his life.”

Asked whether Alvarez’s replacement was a politician, Mr. Aquino could only say the latter was from the “private sector.”

The INQUIRER last week quoted Palace sources as saying that the President had asked former Muntinlupa City Rep. Rozanno Rufino “Ruffy” Biazon to head the BOC and that the latter had accepted the offer two weeks ago after being given more time to study it.

Biazon, a member of Mr. Aquino’s Liberal Party, ran but lost in last year’s senatorial elections.