File photo of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla
MANILA, Philippines–-Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla will take a ten-day wellness leave effective immediately for undisclosed “personal reasons,” the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Monday.
“We kindly ask for your understanding and respect for the Secretary’s privacy during this time. We look forward to the Secretary’s return and his continued service to the DOJ and the Filipino people,” read the DOJ statement.
It also said Remulla’s leave would not affect the department’s operation.
“Our officials and employees will continue to work diligently and fulfill their respective responsibilities to ensure that the operations of our department run smoothly during the Secretary’s absence,” the document stated.
“Rest assured that the DOJ will continue to carry out its vital functions and responsibilities, including the protection of the rights of every Filipino citizen, without any interruption,” it added.
Remulla on Monday skipped the DOJ-Philippine National Police training program for law enforcement officers at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.
Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez delivered Remulla’s call to action message on the secretary’s behalf.
Remulla, in a Viber message to reporters, said Vasquez is DOJ’s officer-in-charge during his absence.