Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. will be taking a two-week medical leave, beginning July 9th, the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Tuesday.
The leave will allow Secretary Laurel to undergo a medical procedure he has postponed since assuming his position in November 2023.
The DA preemptively announced the leave to quell any speculation regarding his absence, emphasizing that Secretary Laurel will continue to monitor developments remotely and that departmental operations will continue uninterrupted. The statement did not disclose the nature of the procedure or the location of the medical facility.
During Secretary Laurel’s absence, Agriculture Undersecretary Roger Navarro will serve as officer in charge. T
his arrangement will ensure the smooth continuation of DA operations, including preparations for the President’s State of the Nation Address on July 24th, when Secretary Laurel is expected to resume his duties.
The announcement comes after Secretary Laurel, along with other Cabinet members, submitted courtesy resignations at the President’s request earlier this year. However, President Marcos subsequently retained Secretary Laurel in his position.
metrosundaily
