President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. appointed “long-time civil servant” Dita Angara-Mathay as the new secretary of the Department of Tourism (DoT) on Friday.
“His appointment shows the administration’s push to position tourism not just as a cultural showcase, but as a strong driver of jobs, businesses and development in the region,” the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement.
Mrs. Angara-Mathay previously worked as a Trade Advisor at the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Tokyo, where he led strategic relations with Japanese industries.
He also led programs linked to global opportunities that support business development and expand opportunities for Filipino businesses, especially micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“With his appointment, the administration aims to further integrate tourism and economic growth, attract more investors, support local industries, and ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt in all regions,” the PCO added.
Tourism Secretary Verna Buensuceso has been the official in charge of the department since March, after former DoT Chief Ma. Christina G. Frasco has assumed a new position as Advisor to the President for Sustainable and Sustainable Communities.
Ms. Frasco has previously faced a lot of criticism during her tenure, including scrutiny on social media for promoting her image rather than local tourism. – Almira Louise S. Martinez
