Duterte abolishes Palace communications planning office Noynoy created

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday abolished the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) which was established by his predecessor Benigno Aquino III.

Duterte cited the government’s rationalization and streamlining efforts for abolishing the PCDSPO, according to Executive Order 111 which took effect immediately.

“All agencies, bureaus and offices previously attached to the PCDSPO under EO No. 4 (s. 2010) are retained and shall remain under the offices having actual supervision and jurisdiction over them,” the order stated.

“Provided that such existing arrangements may be modified, in consultation with the concerned agencies, through an executive issuance from the OP [Office of the President].”

The PCDSPO, whose mandate included providing “strategic communication leadership and support” to the Executive branch,” was headed by former broadcast journalist Ricky Carandang and historian Manuel Quezon III under the Aquino administration.

In his order, Duterte also placed the Office of the Presidential Spokesperson (OPS) under the OP.

The President ordered the OPS, currently headed by lawyer Harry Roque, to review and modify, if necessary, its existing organizational structure and staffing pattern “to effectively and efficiently” carry out its functions.

The OPS and the Presidential Communications Operations Office were also directed to coordinate on all activities related to their respective functions.

The Palace spokesperson may be assisted by a deputy spokesperson and assistant spokesperson, who shall serve in a coterminous capacity. -NB, GMA News