Newly appointed National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Atty. Melvin Matibag has denied claims that his appointment by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was a “reward” (gantimpala) for filing a disbarment case against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.

“Napakahirap ng trabaho sa NBI para hindi naman gantimpala. But, anyway, anyone is entitled to their opinion, and nirerespeto ko ‘yan,” Matibag told reporters.

The new director emphasized that he should not be judged prematurely and said the public should first assess his performance in office.

“Hindi naman siguro ako dapat husagan doon sa mga bagay na ganyan kundi kung ano ‘yong magiging performance ko bilang director ng NBI,” he said.

Matibag also pointed out that Roque could review his track record leading other agencies, such as the Manila International Airport Authority.

He clarified that he respects the opinion of his “friend” and will leave the resolution of the disbarment case to the Supreme Court.

“Kaibigan ko si former Secretary Harry Roque, magkasama kami dati sa gabinete, ‘yong aking ifinile na kaso nasa Supreme Court ‘yan, so, let it be resolved with the Supreme Court,” Matibag said.

Matibag had filed a disbarment complaint against Roque in September 2024 over a video allegedly linking Roque to a “polvoron” post that was connected to President Marcos Jr.

Matibag formally took an oath today, February 23, as the new chief of the agency replacing Atty. Lito Magno.