Former senator Francis Tolentino has been appointed as acting secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (Department of Labor and Employment), Malacañang announced.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. tapped Tolentino to lead the labor department, expressing confidence in his experience in public service.
“Tiwala si Pangulong Marcos Jr. na mapamumunuan ni incoming Acting Secretary Tolentino ang DOLE dahil sa kanyang kakayahan at malawak na karanasan sa paghawak ng mahahalagang tungkulin sa pamahalaan, local o national,” Castro said.
The appointment comes after outgoing Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma stepped down due to health reasons.
In a statement, Laguesma said he is leaving his post to prioritize his medical condition, while ensuring a smooth transition within the department.
Tolentino is set to take his oath before President Marcos Jr. in Malacañang on Monday afternoon.
A former senator, Tolentino previously served as Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman, presidential adviser on political affairs, and Tagaytay City mayor.
