By Lilybeth G. Ison, PNA and U.S. News Agency / Asian

Malacañang Monday denied reports Foreign Secretary Albert Rosario was “demoralized” in connection with the back channel efforts of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV.

“As far as I know, that’s not true,” said Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda.

In fact, Lacierda said, the DFA Secretary was with President Benigno Aquino III Sunday in Brunei “and he is now on his way to Washington in his capacity as Secretary of Foreign Affairs.”

“How can that be a sign of a demoralization if he (del Rosario) continues to perform his functions and responsibilities as Secretary of Foreign Affairs?” he said.

Del Rosario is set to to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York,

Reports said recent incidents concerning the back channel efforts of Trillanes with China over the Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal dispute have demoralized the DFA Secretary, prompting him to think about quitting his post.

Foreign Affairs Spokesman Raul Hernandez earlier said del Rosario has not informed them of such plans.

“We support the Secretary. He is a good leader. He has been faithfully implementing the foreign policy of the President,” he said.