Manila: Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is set to take a two-week leave to undergo a medical procedure, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced Tuesday. Tiu Laurel, who assumed office in November 2023, stated that the procedure had to be deferred due to his responsibilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel has assured that he will continue to monitor the department's programs and projects during his absence. He emphasized that his work would persist despite being abroad for medical reasons. The Department of Agriculture has not disclosed specifics regarding Tiu Laurel's medical procedure.

Tiu Laurel's leave is scheduled from July 9 to 23, with plans to return on July 24, just before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA). During his absence, Undersecretary Roger Navarro will serve as the department's officer-in-charge.