ANGARA QUESTIONS NEW PALACE APPOINTMENTS

Senator Edgardo J. Angara today questioned Malacanang's move to replace key administrative and bureaucratic posts, which he said is "causing demoralization within the bureaucracy on the eve of the transition to a new administration."

"I recognize the prerogative of the President to appoint up to the last day allowed her by law. But we should question the wisdom of taking out good, performing career executives because it is wreaking havoc and demoralizing the bureaucracy," said Angara.

Among the top executives replaced were National Museum Director Cora Alvina and Bureau of Animal Industry Director Dave Catbagan.

As for Alvina's position, the Museum Director is appointed by the Board of Trustees according to Sections 11 and 13 of R.A. No. 8492 or the National Museum Charter.

"There are many others, but these are two glaring examples of how to demoralize the bureaucracy. Both Director Alvina and Director Catbagan are internationally-recognized experts in their respective fields, long time career administrators, and are well-respected by their constituencies," he said.

Alvina is an esteemed anthropologist and past president of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila. She is current chairperson of the executive committee of the Asia-Europe Museum Network (ASEMUS), under the Asia Europe Foundation.

Meanwhile, Catbagan is a licensed veterinarian under whose watch the country's livestock was kept free of foot and mouth disease (FMD) and bird flu, allowing the Philippines to export poultry meat to Asian markets.

Angara said, "it is possible that President Arroyo does not even know the background of their replacements. Their appointments could have been lobbied and sponsored by padrinos. They are doing the President a great disservice."