Manila, Feb. 20 -- Lawyer Melvin Matibag on Friday took oath as the new director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) before Executive Secretary Ralph Recto during a ceremony held at Malacanan Palace in Manila.

Matibag's designation was announced by the Palace on Thursday.

He previously served in the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

Malacanang on Thursday said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. considered Matibag's trustworthiness and competence as key factors in his appointment.

Matibag replaced former NBI Director Jaime Santiago.

Prior to Matibag's appointment, Angelito Magno served as officer-in-charge of the NBI following Santiago's resignation.

The Department of Justice (DOJ), meanwhile, welcomed Mati...