President Ferdinand Marcos named Senior Undersecretary for Strategic Communications Cesar Chavez as the administration’s new communication’s secretary vice Cheloy Garafil.
Garafil is set to lead the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taiwan replacing Silvestre Bello III.
The newly minted Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary outlined his vision for the agency during a press briefing on Thursday, emphasizing clear and timely communication, particularly during emergencies.
Chavez said a digital hotline had been set up, integrating the Office of the Executive Secretary, Office of Civil Defense, Presidential Management Staff, PAGASA, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to streamline announcements.
“Before 4 a.m., if necessary, the Office of the President will issue an announcement,” Chavez said, stressing that personnel are prepared to make decisions as early as 3 a.m. when severe weather is expected.
Chavez also said the PCO is ready to take risks by declaring suspensions of classes or government operations, even if the weather later improves.
“We’ll take the risk even if it’s sunny at 9 or 11 in the morning.,” he said.
He shared plans for a more open Malacañang Press Corps coverage and tackle fake news by assigning fact-check officers within state media.
He noted that the PCO would focus on addressing fake news, urging government officials and the public to refrain from spreading misinformation.
Chavez revealed that he was first approached in August 2022 to lead the PCO while he was serving as undersecretary for rails. Chavez, who was deeply involved in major rail infrastructure projects like the North-South Commuter Railway and the subway, initially declined the offer, stating that he wanted to focus on the President’s infrastructure agenda.
He emphasized that while the President remains the government’s primary spokesperson, he and his team will support the President in explaining complex policies that require more in-depth discussions.
