Manila,November 6 (AseanAll)  — On November 6, 2026, Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administered the oath of office to 10 ad interim appointees, underscoring his administration’s commitment to stronger accountability, transparent governance, and better public services.

“This is the best team ever assembled here since my father’s Cabinet,” Marcos said, recognizing the work of the secretaries in their departments, and their appointment reflects the administration’s continued confidence in their leadership to serve the Filipino people with the effective implementation of government programs.

Among those who took their oath were Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto and Department of Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida.

Also sworn in were Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez, Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Francis N. Tolentino and Department of Health Secretary Edwin M. Mercado.

The other appointees were Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Juan Miguel T. Cuna, Department of Tourism Secretary Maria Bernardita A. Mathay and Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon.

Completing the list were Department of Budget and Management Secretary Kim Robert C. De Leon and Philippine Space Agency Director General Gay Jane P. Perez.

The officials’ ad interim appointments remain subject to confirmation by the Commission on Appointments composed of representatives from the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The President emphasized the importance of strengthening public accountability and ensuring that government officials remain answerable to the Filipino people.

Under the President’s governance agenda, government agencies are expected to uphold the rule of law, strengthen accountability and protect taxpayers’ money to address public concerns over government spending and build greater confidence in public institutions.

Marcos also underscored the importance of translating government policies and reforms into concrete improvements in public services.

The department and agency heads are expected to build on existing accomplishments while addressing longstanding problems affecting their respective sectors.

President Marcos’ administration continues to promote transparency, accountability and responsible use of public funds to strengthen Filipinos’ trust in government.

Priority government programs are expected to be implemented properly and on time to meet the needs of the people to improve public services for workers, patients, commuters and families across the country.