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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider New DOT chief? Maybe in the next few weeks, Palace says

New DOT chief? Maybe in the next few weeks, Palace says

Published Mar 17, 2026 03:38 pm
Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro (Betheena Unite)
Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro (Betheena Unite)
There is no discussion yet on who will take over the top position at the Department of Tourism (DOT), Malacañang said. 
Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said an announcement on the replacement of former Tourism chief Christina Frasco may be made in the coming weeks.  
"As of now, we have not yet discussed about the replacement for the position. Let’s just wait, maybe in the next few weeks," Castro said in a press briefing in Mandaue City, Cebu on Tuesday, March 17. 
The Palace official also reiterated that Frasco continues to enjoy the trust of President Marcos, adding that the President is confident Frasco, who has faced online criticism in recent years over the country's tourism campaigns and messaging, can perform her new tasks as the Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities.
"First of all, Secretary Frasco still has the trust given by the President. The President knows that she can perform the tasks given to her as the Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities," Castro said.
According to the Palace Press Officer, the tasks given to Frasco include the facilitation of the integration and alignment of national government initiatives, plans, policies and programs aimed at promoting sustainable and resilient communities.
These efforts include initiatives relating to disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable local development.
Frasco is also tasked to coordinate with national government agencies, local government units (LGUS), and relevant stakeholders to support the effective implementation of presidential directives and priority in national initiatives relating to sustainable and resilient communities.
She will also be responsible in monitoring the progress of implementation of such directives and initiatives and identify gaps, bottlenecks or coordination issues affecting efforts to promote sustainability and resilience of communities. 
Castro said the President is fully aware that Frasco will be able to coordinate with LGUs and handle matters aimed at easing the challenges Filipinos face during disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and other kinds of emergency situations.
Malacañang announced on March 12 Frasco's exit from the DOT after months-long speculation of her leaving the Tourism portfolio.
The Palace official, however, clarified that Frasco neither resigned, nor asked to step down from the post.

Related Tags

President Marcos Christina Frasco DOT Tourism Secretary
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