Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday administered the oath of office to Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento as the new Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) released several photos of Sarmiento's oath-taking at Malaca±an Palace in Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sarmiento replaced former secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. whose retirement from the post took effect on Tuesday. Galvez announced his decision to step down from public service, citing his commitment to attend to his wife's health and devote more time to his family.

As presidential peace adviser, Sarmiento is tasked with overseeing the country's comprehensive peace process, advancing peace negotiations, and supporting the rehabilitation and social healing of former rebels and their communities under the Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) agenda. Sarmiento brings extensive experience to the role, having served as the head of the Department of the Interior and Local Government from 2015 to 2016 under the late President Benigno Aquino III.

Sarmiento's public service career began as vice mayor of Calbayog City from 1992 to 1995. He also represented the first legislative district of Samar for two consecutive terms from 2010 to 2015 and served as the three-term mayor of Calbayog City from 2001 to 2010. Malaca±ang stated that Sarmiento's extensive background in local government and public administration equips him well for the task.