Agriculture Secretary Announces Two-Week Medical Leave
Manila, Philippines — Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. will take a two-week medical leave beginning Wednesday, July 9. This planned leave marks the first time since starting his public service career in November 2023 that he will undergo a postponed medical procedure.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) shared the update on Tuesday, emphasizing that the secretary wanted to avoid rumors about his upcoming extended absence from department activities. “Even while I’m abroad for my medical leave, I will continue to monitor developments on the ground. The work just keeps going,” Tiu Laurel said in a statement, partly in Filipino.
Details of Medical Leave and Leadership Transition
The DA has not disclosed the specific procedure or the country where it will be performed. During Tiu Laurel’s absence, DA Undersecretary Roger Navarro will act as officer-in-charge. Navarro will manage the department until the secretary returns on July 24, just a few days before President Ferdinand Marcos’ State of the Nation Address on July 28.
Cabinet Reshuffle and Leadership Stability
Tiu Laurel was among several Cabinet members who submitted courtesy resignations following President Marcos’ directive for an administration revamp. Despite this, the president has not accepted Tiu Laurel’s resignation, ensuring continuity in the department’s leadership during this period.
Local sources noted that this medical leave is a routine step for the secretary, who remains committed to his duties despite temporary absence. The department continues to push forward with its programs and initiatives, assuring stakeholders that operations will proceed without disruption.
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