Lawyer Melvin Matibag, a former Cabinet secretary under ex-President Rodrigo Duterte, is set to become the new director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro announced this at a press briefing. He will replace Lito Magno, who served as officer-in-charge since October last year following the resignation of former director Jaime Santiago.
In Manila, Philippines, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro announced that Lawyer Melvin Matibag will be appointed as the new director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Castro stated that this is the President's prerogative, reflecting trust in Matibag as someone reliable for government service. No specific reasons for the appointment were provided to her.
Matibag served as Duterte's Cabinet secretary and held positions as general manager of the Manila International Airport Authority and president and chief executive officer of the National Transmission Corporation during Duterte's administration. He was also secretary-general of PDP-Laban, Duterte's political party, until resigning in 2023. Duterte's family is currently at odds with the Marcos administration.
The NBI expressed gratitude to outgoing officer-in-charge Lito Magno for his leadership, highlighting his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to public service. Magno said, 'Serving as director of the National Bureau of Investigation has been both an honor and a profound responsibility. I am deeply grateful to the dedicated agents and personnel who stood with me in upholding our mandate.' He added that he has full confidence the bureau will continue its mission with integrity under new leadership.
The NBI assured the public of continued services and a seamless transition, pledging full support to Matibag. It reiterated its commitment to delivering justice without fear or favor. At the same briefing, Castro denied rumors of Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno's removal, stating fake documents about his status would be investigated by the NBI.
