Christina Frasco to leave DOT, named adviser on sustainable communities

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has appointed Christina Frasco as Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said on Thursday.

Castro said Frasco "will transition from her role as Secretary of Tourism."

"The Department of Tourism will temporarily be headed by an officer in charge, Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso," Castro said.

Marcos tasked Frasco to help strengthen the implementation and sustained follow-through of priority national initiatives at the community level.

This as many areas across the country face increasing climate-related hazards and disruptions that affect local economies and livelihoods. 

Castro said Marcos expressed his appreciation for Frasco’s service at the agency and conveyed confidence that her experience working closely with local governments and communities will continue to support the administration’s priorities.

Hours earlier, Castro said an announcement would be made on Friday regarding the DOT leadership.

“Malamang bukas ay mayroon po tayong announcement,” Castro said. 

(Maybe tomorrow there will be an announcement.) 

Asked if her response was a confirmation that there would be a change of leadership, she said, “Puwedeng oo, puwedeng hindi. Magbibigay kami ng announcement tomorrow.”

(Maybe yes, maybe no. We will give an announcement tomorrow.) 

Pressed if diplomat Dita Angara would replace Frasco, Castro said she could not provide any details yet. 

GMA News Online has reached Frasco for comment if indeed she resigned from her post, but she has yet to reply as of posting time. –NB, GMA Integrated News