Duterte defends Andanar, PCOO’s info roadshow in Europe

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday defended Secretary Martin Andanar from criticisms stemming from the Presidential Communications Operations Office’s (PCOO) information campaign in Europe.

“Basta wala lang corruption and the funds are properly accounted. And he’s the mainstay in the propaganda of government. We have to have a propaganda division you know,” Duterte told reporters in Malacañang.

“It’s a political entity itong presidency and of course all others. But more importantly, ako, because I execute the laws," he added.

Senators earlier questioned the necessity of sending government officials in Europe supposedly to answer queries on the recent arrest of Rappler CEO Maria Ressa.

But Andanar said the objective of the Philippine delegation was to clarify the issue on the 625 cases of enforced disappearances in the country as reported by the United Nations and communist terrorist groups.

“If it’s the decision of the head of office then all he has to do is to tell me that it is good and I will listen and if I agree go ahead. The only thing is spend the money of the government correctly and properly,” Duterte said.

Andanar assured the public on Monday that no public funds were wasted in the official mission which came about from a directive from the National Security Council.

He said all engagements in Bosnia, Brussels and Geneva were part of the PCOO’s mandate to deliver and disseminate information in relation to the policies, programs, and achievements of the President and Executive branch.  —NB, GMA News