Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has exercised his 'plenary power' to appoint Cabinet Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos Jr., whose redefined role will focus on bringing government services closer to the people, Malaca±ang said Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that there is no need for the President to issue an executive order to reconstitute the Office of the Cabinet Secretary, as Abalos' mandate is distinct from that of the defunct office. Castro explained that President Marcos redefined the CabSec position, using his authority to reorganize the Executive Branch, particularly the Office of the President.

Under the President's directive, Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos is tasked with ensuring that every Filipino feels and benefits from government services. This new focus differs from the previous role, which centered on managing the President's Cabinet meetings. The President's directive emphasizes the importance of Abalos facilitating the delivery of government services directly to the public.

Executive Order 1, issued by Marcos in June 2022, abolished the Office of the Cabinet Secretary and placed the Cabinet Secretariat under the supervision of the Presidential Management Staff. Castro clarified that Abalos' primary role is to assist the President by providing leadership and direction in developing, coordinating, and implementing political and constituency engagement initiatives.

Abalos is also expected to travel across the country to represent the President and collaborate with Cabinet members in addressing public concerns. Castro underscored the President's confidence in Abalos' ability to fulfill his duties effectively.

Abalos took his oath as Cabinet Secretary on Wednesday in a ceremony presided over by Marcos at Malaca±an Palace in Manila.