The Cabinet secretary position has been redefined under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., following the appointment of former Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” D. Abalos, Jr. According to Malacañang, the new role will involve representing the President in the field and ensuring that every Filipino feels and benefits from government services.
The appointment was made under the President's authority to reorganize the Executive branch and his plenary power to appoint officials, with no new executive order required, Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro explained. Instead of focusing on managing Cabinet meetings, the President has instructed Mr. Abalos to travel across the country, coordinate with Cabinet members, and help address local community concerns.
The Cabinet secretary position has undergone significant changes, with the Office of the Cabinet Secretary abolished in 2022 as part of a broader government reorganization. Many of its functions were transferred to the Office of the Executive Secretary, but the President's new mandate for Mr. Abalos marks a distinct shift in the role's responsibilities.
The appointment has been clarified to differ from that of special assistant to the President, with Palace officials stating that the position is not a response to shortcomings among Cabinet members. Mr. Abalos will work closely with the Office of the Executive Secretary to ensure a smooth transition of his new duties.
