Manila: Dave Gomez, a seasoned corporate communications executive with a background in journalism, will serve as the new chief communicator of the Marcos administration. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced during a press briefing in Malaca±ang that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Gomez as Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

According to Philippines News Agency, Gomez previously served as the communications director for PMFTC Inc., Philip Morris International's Philippine affiliate, for over two decades. His career began as a reporter for The Philippine Star, and he also held the position of Director-General at the Philippine Information Agency.

Castro highlighted the importance of Gomez's role, stating, 'Secretary Dave will ensure clear and truthful government messaging for every Filipino.' Gomez will replace Jay Ruiz as PCO chief and will be the fifth to hold this position under the current administration.

In a related appointment, Ruiz is set to join the board of directors of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), as mentioned by Castro. MECO is chaired by Cheloy Garafil, who also served as PCO Secretary from October 2022 to September 2024.

Furthermore, Castro announced the appointment of Sharon Garin as Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE). Garin had been serving as the DOE officer-in-charge following the transfer of Secretary Raphael Lotilla to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.