Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary Cesar Chavez confirmed on Wednesday, Oct. 5, that he is being eyed by the Marcos administration as the new press secretary, but expressed apprehension over accepting the post since he wants to focus more on improving the country’s railway system.
Chavez’s name emerged a day after Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles resigned from the post, citing “health reasons.”
“I was informed that I’m being considered for the position. Yes, I was informed,” he said, adding he was “surprised” to be included in the list because “there are more qualified, highly qualified, for that position.”
“I expressed no interest in that position,” Chavez told ANC’s Headstart.
But he did say that he will be discussing the offer with his family.
And while he did not apply for the position, the Transportation official maintained that he would be a “good soldier” as part of the Marcos administration.
READ: Press Secretary Angeles resigns due to ‘health reasons’
Chavez skirted the question of whether he wanted to be press secretary or not, choosing instead to highlight how the railways project could be the “legacy” of the present administration.
“Railways is very challenging. This is going to be a good legacy of the Marcos administration... There are many railway projects that I think I can be more of service to the country if I focus on the railway sector,” he said.
Chavez’s name is one of a few being floated as next press secretary.
Director Paul Soriano, nephew of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s wife, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, is reportedly being considered for the post, too.
Soriano, with wife Toni Gonzaga-Soriano, are ardent supporters of Marcos.