President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco as Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities, Malacañang announced Thursday.

In a statement, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the new role will focus on strengthening the implementation of key national programs at the local level, particularly as communities face growing climate-related risks.

Castro said the appointment comes as many areas across the country experience increasing climate-related hazards and disruptions that affect local economies and livelihoods.

“As many areas across the country face increasing climate-related hazards and disruptions that affect local economies and livelihoods, the President has tasked Secretary Frasco to take on this role to help strengthen the implementation and sustained follow-through of priority national initiatives at the community level,” she said.

Frasco will transition from her role as Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT), a position she has held since 2022.

The Palace said the DOT will be temporarily headed by Officer in Charge, Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso.

Castro said President Marcos expressed appreciation for Frasco’s service at the DOT.

“The President expressed his appreciation for her service at the Department of Tourism and conveyed confidence that her experience working closely with local governments and communities will continue to support the Administration’s priorities,” she said.

The move comes after reports claimed Marcos has chosen seasoned trade diplomat Dita Angara-Mathay as the new tourism chief, replacing Frasco, who has faced fierce criticisms during her stint with the agency.

Frasco recently faced backlash over her supposed excessive self-promotion. (PNA)