Manila: Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz has firmly rebuffed allegations of owning a private media firm that reportedly secured over PHP200 million in government contracts. He described the claims as 'fake news' and part of a 'demolition job' intended to damage his reputation. According to Philippines News Agency, Ruiz clarified his role with Digital 8 Inc., stating that he served merely as an 'authorized representative' during negotiations for a PHP206-million contract with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). This contract was for the broadcast of lotto draws on the government-operated IBC 13 channel. He highlighted that the contract was finalized before his appointment as PCO chief and confirmed his resignation from the company in January 2025. Ruiz took office as the PCO secretary on February 24, and in his statement to Palace reporters, he emphasized that he neither owned nor held shares in Digital 8. "Naimbitahan lang ako para mag-represent sa company kasi siyem pre kahit papano may pangalan naman tayo and they want some status for their spokesperson. Authorized representative ang tawag," he explained, indicating his role was purely representational due to his industry recognition. He criticized the allegations as baseless, pointing out that these transactions occurred before his tenure in public office. "Wala pa ko sa gobyerno noon. Since hindi akin 'yan, the accusations walang katotohanan. Ayoko sana patulan kasi fake news eh," Ruiz stated, expressing his reluctance to engage with what he perceives as misleading information. Ruiz also shared his disappointment over the personal impact the report had on his family, particularly his children, and criticized the lack of effort to present his perspective before the allegations were publicized. He expressed his frustration, noting, "Eight days pa lang ako. I'm trying to reform the office. Pang-apat na PCO secretary ako. Eighth day pa lang madami nang sinasaksak sa akin, lumutang pa lang ang pangalan ko kung anu-ano na ng paninira ang lumalabas." When questioned about the possibility of a targeted campaign against him, Ruiz asserted, "Yes, obviously there is." He further clarified that he is currently in the process of divesting his interests in the political communication management company he was associated with.
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