Claire Castro Confirmed Palace Press Officer Role
MANILA, Philippines — Two weeks after submitting her courtesy resignation amid the reshuffling of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Undersecretary Claire Castro has secured her position as Palace Press Officer. This confirmation was announced in a special order dated July 29 and signed by PCO Secretary Dave Gomez.
The special order confirmed and recognized Castro as the official Palace Press Officer, effective immediately. It clarified that this confirmation does not create a new plantilla item or involve additional compensation beyond what is authorized by law.
New Responsibilities as Palace Press Officer
As Palace Press Officer, Castro will officially handle media briefings, provide timely statements, and clarify presidential engagements, policies, and positions as authorized. She will also coordinate closely with the Media Accreditation and Relations Office, the Presidential News Desk, and other units within the PCO to support press relations and media operations.
Her role includes supervising the preparation of messaging materials and briefing content for official media appearances, ensuring clear and consistent communication from Malacañang.
Courtesy Resignation and Retention
On his first day as PCO secretary, Gomez issued a memorandum directing all political appointees in the office to submit unqualified courtesy resignations by July 18. The memo stated that until action is taken on these resignations, incumbents must continue performing their duties unless otherwise directed.
This means that unless Gomez formally accepts Castro’s resignation, she remains the PCO undersecretary. Castro complied with the directive, explaining it allows the new leadership to select personnel they prefer to work with.
Clarifications Amid Speculations
At the time of her resignation, Castro said she was unaware of any complaints or calls for her removal from Malacañang or the PCO. She also denied rumors that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or his family requested her to tone down her daily press briefings or step back from her duties.
Sources confirmed the special order was disseminated to all PCO officials and staff, emphasizing a transparent transition within the office’s ranks.
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