The National Commission of Senior Citizens has confirmed that lawyer Franklin M. Quijano is no longer chairman of the agency with Commissioner Mary Jean P. Loreche continuing as officer-in-charge until a replacement for Quijano gets appointed.

In a public statement released by Loreche’s office, the NCSC said Quijano has been “deemed resigned” as chairman and chief executive officer after he filed his Certificate of Candidacy as mayor of Iligan City ast October 8.

Interviewed by the SeniorTimes.PH, Quijano on Monday that he should be considered to have resigned his post effective his filing of his COC.

Quijano was supposed to return for work after serving a 90-day preventive suspension ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as a result of an administrative case filed against him.

News reports about details of the case appeared vague even as a member of the Lower House has been suspected of orchestrating moves to pressure Quijano into giving up his post.

Commissioner Rey Mansilungan had also been suspended by Malacanang for various alleged administrative offenses allegedly instigated by the administration congressman.

Ironically, Mansilungan joined four fellow NCSC commissioners who called for the resignation of Quijano during a press conference last June.

Both Quijano and Mansilungan were former officers of the PDP-Laban before they were appointed to the NCSC by ex-President Rodrigo Duterte, head of the said political party.

Meanwhile, Loreche assured the country’s senior citizens that the NCSC operations “will proceed without interruption” notwithstanding the resignation of Quijano.

Loreche, who was appointed NCSC OIC on July 15 said the agency should be expected to continue pursuing “our commitment to providing the best care, services and support for senior citizens”.

“The NCES remains steadfast and committed in fulfilling its mandates as provided for under Republic Act No. 11350 and ensures that the elderly community receives the comprehensive care and services they deserve,” she said.