Benhur Abalos Jr. has been appointed Cabinet Secretary by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., marking a continuation of his public service career.
Benhur Abalos Jr. expressed his deep gratitude after his appointment as Cabinet Secretary by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 8, 2026. In a statement, Abalos acknowledged the trust and confidence placed in him by the President. He highlighted his previous roles, including serving as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government from 2022 to 2024 and as chairperson of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority from 2021 to 2022. He also served as mayor of Mandaluyong City from 1998-2004 and 2007-2016 and ran unsuccessfully for senator in the 2025 elections. According to Malacañang Palace, Abalos’s duties may include acting as a liaison with government agencies, local government units, political organizations, civil society, and sector groups on political matters. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring efficient, cohesive government operations supporting the administration’s programs with professionalism and accountability.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994204/benhur-abalos-grateful-for-latest-cabinet-secretary-appointment/story/