Duterte’s campaign chief declines Cabinet seat

Mayor Leoncio Evasco Jr. of Maribojoc, Bohol (Photo from www.maribojoc.gov.ph)

DAVAO CITY — The national campaign manager of presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte declined the offer to serve in the Cabinet of the incoming administration.

Leoncio Evasco said on Wednesday evening that he appreciated the offer but stressed he was not interested in a Cabinet seat.  Nevertheless, he said he would remain available to help Duterte in a low-key capacity wherever his skills and capacities would be applicable.  He was offered the post of secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Governments (DILG).

“To be nominated or shortlisted for the secretary of interior and local government would be a great honor for me, since not all will be given the chance to lead the department,” Evasco said in a statement posted on Facebook.

However, Evasco said that despite his role as one of the prime movers of Duterte’s campaign, he was not interested in any Cabinet appointment.

“I would like to clarify that I am not, and will not be interested in any Cabinet post. I will always be grateful for the offer, and i will always serve our newly elected president and the Filipino people in some other way, based on my capacity and skills,” Evasco said.

Evasco, a former rebel who later became Davao city government administrator under Duterte before becoming a mayor in Maribojoc town in Bohol, vowed to continue his work in public service.  SFM