Benhur Abalos: Grateful for latest Cabinet Secretary appointment

Benhur Abalos Jr. expressed his gratitude on Wednesday after he was appointed as Cabinet Secretary by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“I am deeply honored and grateful for the trust and confidence that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has placed in me through this appointment,” he said in a statement.

“From serving as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government to now being entrusted with the responsibilities of Cabinet Secretary, I view this as a continuing opportunity to serve the President, the Administration, and the Filipino people with utmost integrity, dedication, and results,” he added.

“I accept this responsibility with humility and a firm commitment to help ensure that government works efficiently, cohesively, and always in the service of the Filipino people,” he further said.

Abalos’ last stint in public service was leading the Department of the Interior and Local Government in the Marcos administration from 2022 to 2024. Prior to that he was the chairperson of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority from 2021 to 2022.

He is also notable for serving as Mandaluyong City mayor 1998 to 2004, and 2007 to 2016.

Abalos unsuccessfully ran for senator in the 2025 midterm elections.

According to Malacañang, Abalos may be tasked by the President to serve as his liaison with national government agencies, local government units, political organizations and parties, civil society organizations, and sectoral groups on matters of political concern.

“As Cabinet Secretary, our priority will be to strengthen coordination across government agencies, support the effective implementation of the Administration's key programs, and promote a culture of professionalism, accountability, and excellence in public service,” said Abalos. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA News