PRESIDENT RODRIGO R. Duterte is set to issue an executive order (EO) formalizing the designation of the Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS). In a statement on Tuesday, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador S. Panelo said National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr. “requested” during the Cabinet meeting last Monday to formalize the CORDS, which is tasked to help counter regional and local communists, through the issuance of an EO. “This initiative spreads Cabinet officials nationwide and are designated per region to help ending regional and local communists. The CORDS will also be able to help in delivering basic services and livelihood to regions,” he said. In a press briefing, Mr. Panelo said Mr. Esperon’s request was “approved.” — Arjay L. Balinbin

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