New NBI director vows he won’t be a failure

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Dante Gierran on Friday formally assumed his new post during a turnover ceremony attended by Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II.

Gierran took over the post vacated by outgoing NBI Director Virgilio Mendez, who ends his almost two-and-a-half-year tenure as the top official of the Department of Justice's investigative arm.

Gierran is a lawyer and former NBI regional director for the Davao Region.

In his speech, Gierran admitted being surprised by his appointment, saying he was not even close to President Rodrigo Duterte or Aguirre.

"This is destiny. I did not wish for this," Gierran said.

"I will make a dent... I will not go back to my hometown a failure," he added.

Duterte has vowed to suppress crime and corruption in six months.

Mendez asked his colleagues to support the incoming NBI leadership.

"I am appealing to everyone. Let's extend the same warm support to the incoming director and lets oray for him for guidance and good health," said Mendez.

"It's not easy to be on top of this bureau," Mendez added.

Mendez said being the NBI director was the highlight of his 40 years in government, but admitted heading the bureau was no easy task.

"Undeniably, some were unhappy indeed and intrigues were unavoidable.... To those displeased or took the role of bystanders, I also thank you for giving me encouragement to do better," said Mendez. —NB, GMA News