Paul Soriano? Mike Toledo? Who Will Be Marcos' New Press Secretary?
After the resignation of Trixie Cruz-Angeles in early October due to medical reasons, various names have come up for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s new press secretary. Among them are an ex-press secretary from the Estrada administration, two current state officials, and a director with close ties to the Marcoses.
Mike Toledo, a former television host and press secretary himself, is said to have been considered for the position. He is currently an executive for Manny pangilinan's Metro Pacific Investments Corp. Toledo's name has long been floated around the conversation, going back to earlier speculation about Cruz-Angeles' eventual departure. He had also been the spokesperson and media director for former Congressman Gilbert Teodoro's 2010 presidential campaign.
But the lawyer did note that he would not reject the offer if the opportunity arose.
Former Cavite Congressman Gilbert Remulla is said to be in the running, as well. Remulla, who is also a former broadcast journalist, however, expressed that he is satisfied with his current role as a director at the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).
“I’m in a process of deep discernment. I did not apply. However, I am at PAGCOR, enjoying and concentrating on my role here as a director. I’m flattered I’m being considered, and I serve at the pleasure of the President,” Remulla told a group of reporters on Thursday, October 6.
And so the new chapter begins. pic.twitter.com/UEFEgKEyXB
— Gilbert C. Remulla (@GilbertCRemulla) August 24, 2022
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The Marcos family's connection to the Remulla family stretches back to the time of Marcos Jr.'s father. Cavite Governor Jonvic has also once said that Cavite owes its expansion to the Marcoses.
Meanwhile, current Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Cesar Chavez had also confirmed that he was among those in the running, but said that he is still thinking about it. Chavez had previously worked as former Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko" Moreno's chief of staff.
"I am discussing it with my family... I said I did not express interest in that, but I'm part of the Marcos administration," he said in an interview with ABS-CBN News. "I'm a good soldier. I really don't want to preempt."
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Then there's Paul Soriano. He and his wife, entertainment personality Toni Gonzaga, have had a longstanding relationships with the Marcoses. Soriano happens to be the nephew of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, through his father Gines Soriano.
Soriano directed Marcos Jr.'s first State of the Nation Address and is now working on Marcos' first 100 days campaign. He also confirmed with ABS-CBN News that there were "conversations" about the matter.
"Yes, there was a conversation but I feel that the position needs more qualified people to help the President... I can be of better service behind the scenes working with the President‘s media and communications team,” he explained.
