The Commission on Appointments (CA) has approved in plenary session the ad interim appointment of Jonvic Remulla as secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
In moving for Remulla's confirmation, Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri said that as local chief executive, he's been lauded for bringing improved delivery of public services to Caviteños especially to those with disabilities as well as providing internet access to students of the province.
"I am confident, my dear colleagues that his appointment would encourage smoother coordination and improved communication between the national government and our local government units LGUs which we hope would translate to safer, more resilient and exclusive communities for every Filipino," Zubiri added.
Senator Loren Legarda said that Remulla is no stranger to the complexities of public service. With over 23 years of experience in government as an elected official, he has held leadership positions that required not just technical expertise, but also vision and compassion.
She added that his vision to digitize local government units is well-aligned with the global shift toward modernization, efficiency, and transparency in governance. She added that he is dedicated to expanding the 911 emergency response system nationwide, showcasing a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to enhancing public safety and strengthening disaster preparedness for all Filipinos.
"It is for these reasons, Mr. Chairperson, esteemed colleagues, that I second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. Juanito Victor Catibayan Remulla as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, entrusting him to lead our local government units with a steady hand and a clear vision," she said.
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go also expressed his utmost support for Remulla's appointment.
Go said Remulla is a man of principle, dignity and honor. He said the former governor of Cavite is best-suited, experienced and highly-qualified to be the secretary of the DILG.
“With Gov. Remulla at the helm, I am sure he will serve the public with excellence. Just continue the fight against drugs, criminality and corruption in the government. I have full confidence not only in your ability but also in your heart for our countrymen,” Go said.
Senator Joel Villanueva said that in Remulla's 23 years in public service, most recently as governor of Cavite for more than a decade, the DILG chief demonstrated his commitment to good governance and his ability to translatevision into tangible action.
He added that under his leadership, Cavite has become one of the most business-friendly provinces in the country, with advancements in education, health, social services, and infrastructure.
Remulla initially intended to run for his third and last consecutive term as the Governor of Cavite in the 2025 midterm election. However, he withdrew his certificate of candidacy on October 7, 2024, six days after filing it, and was appointed by President Marcos as the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, succeeding the outgoing DILG Secretary and senatorial candidate Benhur Abalos.
Remulla served as the governor of Cavite from 2019 to 2024 and from 2010 to 2016, and had previously served as vice governor and as provincial board member of Cavite.
His brother, Crispin Remulla, is the current Secretary of Justice.