Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro will remain in her position despite submitting a courtesy resignation, Acting Secretary Lino Cayetano said following changes in the agency’s leadership.
Cayetano confirmed that assistant secretaries and undersecretaries of the PCO had submitted courtesy resignations in connection with the leadership transition. However, he said Castro would continue serving in her current role.
The PCO chief described Castro as a “treasure,” citing her ability to explain government programs and policies to the public.
Cayetano said he needed Castro’s assistance in helping Filipinos better understand issues, programs and policies under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
He also expressed support for Castro’s assertive responses to criticism directed at the president and the administration. Cayetano described that approach as one of her strengths and part of her personality as Palace press officer.
According to Cayetano, he sees nothing wrong with Castro being combative, provided discussions and explanations remain focused on government programs and policies.
The acting secretary also said he wanted Castro to receive more information from government agencies and officials. He said the additional information would help her explain the administration’s actions more clearly to the public.
Meanwhile, Cayetano said the PCO and its attached agencies would continue evaluating the performance of their officials and personnel.
Rather than immediately carrying out a broad reshuffle, he said the agency would maintain its assessment of employees and officials.
The statements outline Cayetano’s approach to the leadership transition, with Castro retaining her position while the PCO continues reviewing personnel performance.
