Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin criticized former Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, asserting that Panelo lacks the “moral authority” to denounce President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s reorganization of the National Security Council (NSC).
Bersamin’s rebuke came after Panelo labeled the removal of the Vice President and former Presidents from the NSC as an “ill-advised Presidential move.”
Bersamin fired back, recalling that during Panelo’s tenure, he supported efforts to oust former Vice President Leni Robredo from the same council. “Panelo seems to have conveniently forgotten his previous stance,” Bersamin said.
Meanwhile, former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque also came under fire from Bersamin. Roque had suggested that the NSC shake-up could be a prelude to martial law, a claim Bersamin dismissed as “malicious” and baseless.
The reorganization has sparked debates, with critics arguing it undermines inclusive governance, while supporters claim it streamlines decision-making on national security.
President Marcos has yet to issue a statement regarding the controversy.
