MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed lawyer Melvin Matibag to make the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) "a stronger instrument of stopping crime, attaining justice, securing peace, and guarding the national interest," Malacañang said Saturday. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto conveyed to Matibag the President’s instruction after he administered the oath to the new NBI director in Malacañang on Friday. In a statement, Recto said he believed Matibag would not only live up to his oath as NBI chief, but also "to the high standard of service required of its leader." "I say this with confidence because he brings with him experience in equally challenging government jobs he performed in the past, with distinction and dedication," Recto said. "Added to this is his deep respect for and knowledge of the law, the faithful observance of which is an NBI hallmark, the reason why it remains esteemed as an effective crimefighting unit," he added.