Manila: Public spokespersons handling the nation's budget, welfare, health, and justice portfolios topped a recent nationwide survey evaluating the most trusted and effective government communicators in the first quarter of 2025.
According to Philippines News Agency, the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD), in partnership with RPMD News, released its inaugural Top 10 Government Communicators list. The top performers scored high on clarity, credibility, public trust, and presence during key national developments. Budget Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran was named the country's top government communicator, registering an 88.7 percent performance rating, followed by Department of Social Welfare and Development Undersecretary Irene Dumlao at 86.5 percent. Libiran was recognized for making complex budget policies accessible and understandable to ordinary Filipinos, while Dumlao was praised for compassionate messaging during calamities.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro and Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano of the Department of Justice registered 84.9 percent and 84.6 percent, respectively, for their clarity and composure under pressure. Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo received an 83.4 percent rating and was commended for relatable, science-based health communications.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, spokesperson of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and regional director of Police Regional Office-Central Luzon, also made it to the list, ranking seventh with a 78.7 percent approval rating. 'It's an honor to be recognized among the country's best communicators. I dedicate this to the entire PNP, whose daily service inspires me to do better,' Fajardo said in a press statement on Sunday. Fajardo continues to juggle her roles as both PNP spokesperson and Central Luzon police chief, overseeing operations in seven provinces and three major cities.
The survey, conducted April 1 to 7 under the RPMD's 'Boses ng Bayan' initiative, interviewed 5,000 respondents nationwide. It measured each spokesperson's effectiveness, clarity, credibility, and public trust, especially during crises or policy rollouts.
Rounding out the top 10 were: Usec. Jonathan Malaya of the National Security Council with 80.8%, Atty. Camille Sue Mae Ting of the Supreme Court with 78.5%, Amb. Teresita Daza of the Department of Foreign Affairs with 77.2%, Dana Sandoval of the Bureau of Immigration with 75.6%, and Col. Margareth Padilla of the Armed Forces of the Philippines with 73.1%.
RPMD Executive Director Dr. Paul Martinez said the rankings reflect the growing demand for truthful, timely, and relatable communication in an age dominated by social media and misinformation.
