However, Press Secretary Charles P. Reyes Jr., in an e-mail, said the resignation need not be accepted by the governor for the resignation to be effective.
“The governor’s primary concern for NMC is full accreditation for the institution. Nothing should be allowed to detract from this overriding objective,” Reyes said.
Variety was told that the governor didn’t read McPhetres’ resignation letter dated March 6.
In an interview, McPhetres said her resignation is now “null and void” and she will remain an NMC regent.
“I retracted my resignation and we will see what the board will do,” she said, adding that she was only complying with governor’s request.
In her resignation, McPhetres expressed her disappointment with the leadership of NMC President Carmen Fernandez.
McPhetres said she was subjected to accusations that tarnished her honor and reputation.
Reyes said the governor was “very wary” of interfering with NMC’s operations.
The principal objective of NMC should be to reaffirm its accreditation, he added.
The governor respects the institution’s autonomous status, Reyes said.
“The governor’s primary role is simply to appoint a qualified regent when a board vacancy exists. However, the governor is willing to provide any proper and reasonable assistance to the NMC, according to law and proper protocol,” Reyes said.
