President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. as the country’s new Cabinet Secretary.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced the appointment and outlined Abalos’ responsibilities in his new position.
According to Castro, Abalos will provide the President with timely, relevant and strategic advice on national, local and international issues that may affect the country’s political landscape.
He will also serve as the President’s conduit in coordinating with national government agencies, local government units, political organizations, civil society organizations and other sectors on matters related to politics.
In addition to his advisory and coordination roles, Abalos will head the Strategic Action and Response Office.
He will also exercise supervision and control over the offices under the Strategic Action and Response Office in accordance with directives issued by the President.
Abalos previously served as DILG secretary from 2022 to 2024.
He left the Cabinet to run for the Senate in the 2025 elections but was unsuccessful in his bid for a seat.
His appointment marks his return to the Marcos administration, where he will take on responsibilities involving political coordination and policy support for the President.
The Palace said his role includes ensuring coordination between the Office of the President and various government agencies, local governments and other stakeholders on issues with political implications.
No additional details were immediately provided regarding the effective date of his appointment or the transition into his new position.
The Palace announcement focused on Abalos’ functions as Cabinet Secretary, including his responsibility to advise the President on political developments and oversee the Strategic Action and Response Office as directed by the Chief Executive.
