ON Thursday, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro announced that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has appointed Christina Frasco as the Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities.
This new role reflects the administration’s focus on strengthening community resilience and ensuring the effective implementation of national initiatives at the local level.
Castro explained that Frasco will transition from her current position as Secretary of Tourism to her new advisory role.
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) will be temporarily headed by Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, who will serve as officer in charge until a new leader is appointed. This interim arrangement aims to maintain stability and continuity in the department’s operations.
Marcos assigned Frasco the important job of ensuring that key national programs are effectively carried out and maintained, especially in places that are most at risk from climate-related dangers. With many regions experiencing increasing climate disruptions, her role is vital in promoting resilient communities that can better withstand natural calamities and protect local economies and livelihoods.
Castro also expressed President Marcos’ appreciation for Frasco’s service at the Department of Tourism and his confidence that her extensive experience working closely with local governments and communities will support the administration’s priorities. She added that an official announcement regarding the new DOT leadership is expected on Friday, signaling upcoming changes in the agency’s top management.
