Dela Cruz resigned last week after the governor disapproved his travel authorization to attend the Western Pacific Fisheries Management Council’s annual meeting in Hawaii.
The governor instead authorized Fish and Wildlife Director Arnold I. Palacios to attend the meeting.
Fitial said he recognizes the need for the veterinary program and he thinks Dela Cruz, “who has been doing the job ever since,” is still the man for the job.
According to the governor, whenever he needs to appoint someone, he always looks at a person’s competence, qualification, ethics and loyalty.
In a separate interview, Dela Cruz said he wants to inform the governor about the situation at the animal quarantine facility in As Perdido. He said there are animals at the facility.
Dela Cruz, a licensed veterinarian, said the facility requires a veterinarian and its service cannot be disrupted.
“It’s important to continue. Otherwise, it will shut down,” he added.
