President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque as his special envoy to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Week.
In a message to reporters, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cesar Chavez confirmed that Mr. Marcos would not attend the said summit.
“(President Marcos) prioritizes domestic concerns, including government responses to calamities,” Chavez said in a message.
The president’s decision to delegate attendance to Roque reflects his focus on addressing key domestic challenges, including the government’s response to recent natural calamities and ongoing efforts to enhance disaster preparedness.
Roque’s role was tasked with representing the Philippines in APEC meetings, where she will work to strengthen economic ties and foster collaboration among the 21 member economies.
The APEC Summit in Peru, which will be held from November 10 to 16, will address key issues such as trade, investment, and regional development.
Moreover, Chavez said that Roque will remain the DTI acting secretary amid her recent appointment.
