Manila: Malaca±ang has announced that lawyer Melvin Matibag will assume the role of director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). This appointment comes as a decision by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained in a press briefing that the decision was made based on the President's prerogative. She emphasized the trust that President Marcos has in Matibag, stating, "First and foremost, it is the President's prerogative. Why did he appoint him? There is trust. The President saw that Atty. Melvin Matibag can be trusted and can work for the government."

Matibag has a history of public service, having served during the Duterte administration and is recognized as an ally of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Despite this, the Palace did not comment on whether these past political affiliations had any influence on his appointment by President Marcos.

Matibag will be succeeding Lito Magno, who had been serving as the acting NBI chief following the resignation of former director Jaime Santiago last year.