Former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Chief Aaron Aquino is the new head of the Clark International Airport Corporation, the operating arm of the Clark International Airport.
This after President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Wilkins Villanueva new PDEA Director-General on Tuesday.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea confirmed that Aquino was appointed head of CIAC on Wednesday morning.
Likewise, presidential spokesman Harry Roque confirmed that Aquino was not sacked due to loss of trust and confidence but was merely transferred to lead the Clark airport, the 3rdbusiest airport in the country with growing international and local flights.
“Aaron Aquino, whom the President replaced with Wilkins Villanueva as PDEA chief, is being transferred to another office. I believe the President thinks he is better suited to another post,” according to Roque. “I can assure you that this is not a case of loss of trust or confidence. He was given a new assignment.”
Aquino was appointed PDEA Director General in August 2017.
Aquino thanked Duterte for giving him the chance to lead PDEA and the war against illegal drugs.
“I sincerely thank President Rodrigo Duterte for his trust and confidence and for giving me the opportunity to serve our people and his administration. I also thank the men and women of PDEA for their support to my leadership and dedication to the agency,” said Aquino.
Roque said the Palace was grateful for Aquino’s “immense contribution to the administration’s campaign against illegal drugs.”
Villanueva was appointed as PDEA Director-General on May 22. He is expected to lead the drug war to greater heights.
“DG Villanueva is no stranger to drug law enforcement. He has been working with PDEA for many years before reaching the agency’s top position,” said Roque. “We, therefore, believe DG Villanueva will lead PDEA and the fight against illegal drugs to greater heights with professionalism, passion, and integrity.”
Villanueva is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985.