NFA administrator quits amid extortion issue

MANILA, Philippines — Arthur Juan, administrator of the National Food Authority, tendered his irrevocable resignation Thursday amid accusations of his involvement in a P15-million extortion case from rice traders.

The Office of the Presidential Assistant for Food Recovery and Agricultural Modernization confirmed over radio on Friday that Juan submitted his resignation letter to Secretary Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan.

In his letter, Juan said his decision to step down is due to his health condition.

Pangilinan was reportedly saddened over Juan's decision as he believes the official is innocent.

Juan offered to resign in August after only two months in office as he denied allegations hurled against him by a rice trader.

The offer to quit was rejected by Pangilinan.

An alleged report from the National Bureau of Investigation leaked earlier this month to the media claims that charges against Juan will soon be filed.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, however, refused to confirm the report as the investigation on the issue has not yet been concluded and no recommendation on charges has been made.

"I cannot confirm anything regarding the NBI report on the alleged NFA extortion because the NBI finding have yet to be finalized, hence, not yet for release," De Lima had said.