Duterte appoints Dizon as presidential adviser for COVID-19 response

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Vince Dizon as presidential adviser for COVID-19 response, according to photos released by Malacañang on Friday.

Accompanied by his family, Dizon took his oath before Duterte on Tuesday.

Dizon’s appointment came days after political strategist Lito Banayo was reported to have said that the Cabinet official was helping the campaign of presidential aspirant and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno.

However, Dizon denied being a part of any political campaign, saying he’s focused on the government’s COVID-19 response, including the country’s vaccination program.

Banayo then said they understand Dizon's "important role" in the government's efforts to address the pandemic.

"We support his efforts even as we will welcome him in our team eventually,” Banayo said.

Dizon previously served as president of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.  — VBL, GMA News