In a move underscoring his administration’s commitment to responsive and results-oriented leadership, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially swore in two new Cabinet members on Thursday following a comprehensive performance assessment of government officials.
Engr. Jose Ramon Aliling took his oath as the new Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), replacing outgoing Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who has been appointed Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Development. Secretary Aliling brings extensive institutional knowledge to the role, having previously served as a DHSUD Undersecretary.
Also sworn in was Atty. Darlene Marie Berberabe, who will now serve as the country’s Solicitor General, succeeding Atty. Menardo Guevarra. Atty. Berberabe is currently the Dean of the University of the Philippines College of Law and formerly led the Pag-IBIG Fund as its CEO, where she was widely credited for championing transparency and innovation.
The appointments come as part of President Marcos’ broader efforts to recalibrate the Cabinet and enhance public service delivery. Earlier this year, the President directed all Cabinet officials to tender courtesy resignations to facilitate a thorough review of their performance and recalibrate leadership where necessary.
“I don’t do things for optics. If there is a problem, I like to fix it,” President Marcos stated during a recent media interview at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia. “Expect us to be doing a rigorous performance review, not only at the Cabinet level, but even deeper.”
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that President Marcos has accepted the resignations of two Cabinet members and retained his trusted economic team, as well as Bersamin himself, to ensure stability and continuity in governance.
The President reiterated his administration’s focus on addressing the day-to-day concerns of the Filipino people, emphasizing the value of efficient public service and strong leadership in achieving national progress.
