Ex-senator Francis Tolentino is new labor secretary

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Tolentino takes over the post of Bienvenido Laguesma who is stepping down to focus on his health

MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed former senator Francis Tolentino as labor secretary, Malacañang announced on Monday, May 25.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire said in a news briefing that Tolentino takes over the post of Bienvenido Laguesma who is stepping down due to his “health condition.”

“Tiwala si Pangulong Marcos Jr. na mapamumunuan ni incoming Acting Secretary Tolentino ang DOLE dahil sa kanyang kakayahan at malawak na karanasan sa paghawak ng mahahalagang tungkulin sa pamahalaan, lokal o nasyonal,” Castro said.

(President Marcos trusts in Acting Secretary Tolentino’s ability to head DOLE because of his competence and his wide experience in holding importance positions in government, at both the local and national levels.)

Tolentino ran for reelection in the 2025 Senate race but lost. The one-year appointment ban on losing 2025 elections candidates lapsed on May 13.

Casto said that Tolentino was to take his oath before the President that afternoon.

Laguesma said in a statement shortly after the Palace announcement that his health condition requires his “full attention at this time.”

– Rappler.com