MANILA, Philippines, September 9 — President Benigno S. Aquino III named Western Samar Representative Mel Senen Sarmiento as the next secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), replacing outgoing Secretary Manuel Roxas II.
The President made the statement during the “Meet Inquirer Multimedia” held at the Philippine Daily Inquirer’s office in Makati City, after he was asked who would take over the post when Secretary Roxas steps down.
President Aquino noted that he wanted a “smooth transition” when Sarmiento assumes the post.
“The transition is being worked out so that he is not thrown into the deep end right away, and there is a smooth transition between Secretary Roxas and Representative Sarmiento,” said the President.
He added that Sarmiento’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Commission on Appointment.
Sarmiento is the Secretary General of the Liberal Party.
The DILG’s attached agencies include the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology. PND (ag)