Paolo Panelo named spokesperson for VP Sara Duterte

MANILA, Philippines — Lawyer Salvador Paolo Panelo Jr. is Vice President Sara Duterte’s new spokesperson, according to the Office of the Vice President (OVP). “We are pleased to announce the appointment of Atty. Paolo Panelo as the spokesperson for Vice President Sara Duterte,” the OVP said in a statement on Wednesday. “In this capacity, Atty. Paolo will serve as the official point of communication, representing the views and positions of the vice president and engaging with the media and public on relevant matters,” it added Panelo was also Duterte’s legal counsel in connection with the multiple perjury complaints she recently filed against Ramil Madriaga. His appointment comes as Duterte faces continued scrutiny over matters involving her grave threats case and the ongoing impeachment trial against her. The new spokesperson is the son of lawyer Salvador Panelo, the former chief legal counsel and presidential spokesperson of Duterte’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. /gsg