MANILA, Philippines — Newly appointed Cabinet Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. made his first public appearance on Friday, vowing to help ensure that government services reach communities across the country.
Abalos joined First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos in distributing free rice to 3,100 beneficiaries under the "Mula sa Puso para sa Pamilya" initiative held at the Mandaluyong City College of Science and Technology Gymnasium.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Abalos as Cabinet Secretary on Wednesday, tasking the former Interior and Local Government secretary with strengthening coordination among executive departments, facilitating discussions on key government policies and programs, and helping ensure the effective implementation of the President's priorities nationwide.
During the event, Abalos said the President has given him a broader mandate beyond coordinating Cabinet meetings by personally visiting communities, listening to public concerns, and ensuring that government programs are effectively delivered across the country.
He said his responsibility as Cabinet secretary was to serve as the President's representative in the field, coordinate with government agencies, and help resolve issues raised by local communities.
Abalos also assured the beneficiaries that the Marcos administration remained committed to responsive governance and accessible public service.
