FROM now on, members of the Cabinet and heads of government agencies are no longer allowed to discuss with members of the media the official statements of President Rodrigo Duterte. The order stems from “instructions of the President and in accordance with the consensus reached duringprevious Cabinet Meetings,” it added. Under the memorandum, the PCOO will be the office authorized to respond to media queries relating to Duterte’s statements, policies, official activities and accomplishments. Andanar has said he has taken such criticism to heart and has promised to streamline the Palace communication strategy. Prior to the memo, Cabinet members would speak to media about Duterte’s statements.

Source: Manila Times September 21, 2016 17:26 UTC