By Samantha Yu
MANILA — Former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. is making a return to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Cabinet after being appointed as the new Cabinet Secretary.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced Wednesday that Abalos will immediately assume the post after taking his oath before President Marcos at Malacañang.
In his new role, Abalos will provide the President with policy advice on political developments and emerging national and international issues. He will likewise act as the administration’s liaison with government offices, local government units, political parties, civic organizations, and various sectors as directed by the Chief Executive.
He has also been designated to supervise the Strategic Action and Response Office, including its attached offices.
The appointment revives the Office of the Cabinet Secretary, which was abolished shortly after Marcos assumed office in 2022 as part of a government restructuring aimed at removing redundant functions within the Office of the President.
Executive Order No. 1, signed by then-Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez, dissolved the office together with the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission to streamline operations.
President Marcos had previously disclosed during his visit to Kazan, Russia, that he intended to give Abalos a larger role in his administration while assuring the public that the move would not affect the positions of current Cabinet officials.
Abalos’ appointment follows reports linking him to the Interior Department anew, although no official announcement has been made regarding the future of incumbent DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
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