Undersecretary Claire Castro Retained in Presidential Communications Office
MANILA, Philippines — Among the first to submit a courtesy resignation, Undersecretary Claire Castro is notably the first political appointee retained in the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) under its new leadership. This key decision highlights her valued role in the government’s communications arm.
On July 29, Acting Secretary Dave Gomez signed a special order officially confirming Castro as Palace press officer, effective immediately, a copy of which local sources obtained. Gomez, who has been PCO chief for just two weeks, is still reviewing the courtesy resignations submitted by over 40 officials in the agency.
Why Undersecretary Claire Castro Remains
Despite the ongoing evaluation, Castro is the first chosen to stay. Gomez praised her performance, telling Malacañang reporters, “She is doing a fine job!” He has yet to appoint new officials following a recent agency revamp led by his predecessor, former Acting Secretary Jay Ruiz.
As Palace press officer, Castro’s responsibilities include briefing the media, issuing timely statements, and clarifying presidential policies and engagements, as authorized. She also coordinates with the Media Accreditation and Relations Office, the Presidential News Desk, and other units to support press relations and media operations. Additionally, she supervises the preparation of messaging materials and briefing content for official media events.
Courtesy Resignation Process Under Gomez
Gomez’s July 14 memorandum instructed all political appointees at the PCO to submit unqualified courtesy resignations by July 18, in line with civil service regulations. This directive covers more than 40 undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, directors, and heads of attached agencies. However, at least two career officials were exempted.
Until Gomez acts on these resignations, the status quo remains. The memo states that appointees must continue their duties unless the new leadership decides otherwise. This means officials will stay on unless their resignations are accepted.
Castro’s Background and Public Profile
A lawyer by profession, the 56-year-old Castro joined the PCO in February alongside former Secretary Ruiz. She also commands a significant online presence, with nearly 500,000 YouTube subscribers on her main channel over five years.
Despite criticism from administration opponents, Castro was expected to retain her post. When she submitted her resignation on July 16, she noted no specific complaints from Malacañang or calls for her removal.
She also denied any directives from Palace principals, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to step back from daily media briefings or soften her tone. Castro stated, “I think all they expect of me is to deliver the truth. Whatever I know and hold to be true, that is what I will stand for.”
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