Bersamin next? Batangas Gov denies he will replace ES

MANILA, Philippines — Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas has vehemently denied a social media post stating that he has been appointed as the new executive secretary, replacing former chief justice Lucas Bersamin.

He was reacting to a Facebook post by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-Batangas congratulating him on his supposed new assignment.

“Congratulations Gov DODO MANDANAS as the new EXECUTIVE SECRETARY replacing ES BERSAMIN,” the post read.

When sought for confirmation through text, Mandanas said: “Not true. I have not even received any invitation to be ES. There is nothing to accept. I am Governor of the Province of Batangas.”

The post had already been taken down.

Asked if he had knowledge of the supposed appointment, Vice Gov. Mark Leviste said, “I’ve received several messages since the holidays, but not one from Gov Dodo re this matter.”

As vice governor, Leviste automatically takes over as provincial chief executive if the talk about Mandanas appointment turns out to be true.

The social media administrator of PCCI-Batangas, for its part, declined to comment on what appeared to be an erroneous post, saying it is awaiting a clearer advisory.