Dave Gomez named new PCO chief

Malacañang announced Thursday the appointment of Dave Gomez as the new chief of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO). 

This was announced by Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro at a press briefing. 

According to Castro, Gomez brings decades of experience in journalism, government, and corporate communications as he served as a senior reporter, director general of the Philippine Information Agency and communications director at PMFTC Inc.

''Secretary Dave will ensure clear and truthful government messaging for every Filipino,'' Castro said.

The PCO has not released any information yet as to when Gomez will take his oath.

Gomez is the fifth appointed head of the PCO, the communications arm of the Marcos administration. Those who held the posts include Trixie Angeles, Cheloy Garafil, Cesar Chavez, and Jay Ruiz. 

To recall, the Commission on Appointments deferred the deliberation on Ruiz's appointment as PCO chief.  

Ruiz will serve as a member of the Board of Directors of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office. 

In a press statement, Ruiz said it has been an honor to lead the PCO in advancing transparency, timely information, and responsible public communication.

''My almost five months as PCO Secretary have been a profound learning experience. I witnessed firsthand the nobility of public service, where every day presents an opportunity to serve the Filipino people and contribute directly to nation-building,'' Ruiz said.

Ruiz thanked Marcos for his continued trust and confidence in appointing him to a new role in the administration.

He also congratulated Gomez, saying that he is confident that the latter's leadership in the PCO will help the agency continue to thrive in fulfilling its vital mission. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News