Malacanang Palace said the departure of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin was ''in line

with the President's discretion and prerogative as part of the ongoing reorganization.''

On Wednesday, Bersamin gave interviews to media where he said: ''I did not resign.''

He admitted that someone called him Monday and informed him that he had to vacate his post.

''I have no problem with that,'' Bersamin told dzRH radio station. ''I first communicated with the President I have no problem with leaving the Cabinet.'' He said that he did not write a letter of resignation saying he left because of delicadeza as announced at 2pm. He added that he signed his letter of resignation on Tuesday afternoon.

Bersamin said he serves ''at the pleasure of the President.'' He added that he spoke to the President Monday afternoon for 30 minutes and he ''felt so relieved'' he is no longer executive secretary.

''The Palace acknowledges former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin’s clarification regarding the manner of his transition,'' an official statement said.

Bersamin was allegedly linked to the flood control scandal where his grand nephew, who works with the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office. ''I stand by my integrity. I am not involved,'' ANC said.

''As he himself stated in his interview, he submitted himself to the President’s discretion and prerogative as part of the ongoing reorganization. The Palace announcement was issued in line with this understanding and with due regard for stability and continuity in governance,” the statememt said. DMS